Support our independent tech coverage. Chrome Unboxed is written by real people, for real people—not search algorithms. Join Chrome Unboxed Plus for just $2 a month to get an ad-free experience, access to our private Discord, and more. Learn more about membership here.
START FREE TRIAL (MONTHLY)START FREE TRIAL (ANNUAL)
If there is one universal truth about live TV streaming services, it is that behind-the-scenes carriage negotiations are constantly happening. Usually, subscribers only hear about these complex deals when negotiations break down and channels suddenly vanish from the service, like what we saw with the high-profile Disney dispute last year.
Thankfully, the latest contract renewal for YouTube TV means you won’t have to face a blackout for one of the platform’s biggest staples. According to a new report from The Hollywood Reporter (via 9to5 Google) Google’s live TV service has officially renewed its carriage agreement with Byron Allen’s Allen Media Group.
The most notable aspect of this newly minted “long-term agreement” is that The Weather Channel will remain a fixture on YouTube TV. The popular network, which first arrived on the streaming platform back in 2022, was quietly on the chopping block before this new deal was finalized.
While The Weather Channel is the undeniable headline, the renewed contract also ensures a handful of other Allen Media Group networks will continue broadcasting to subscribers. The retained channels include:
- Comedy.TV
- Justice Central
- Recipe.TV
- Local Now (Allen’s free streaming service)
Keeping the lineup consistent
“We are pleased to continue our relationship with Allen Media Group,” stated Emily Washkowitz, YouTube’s head of TV and film partnerships. “Our goal is to provide a consistent and diverse lineup for our subscribers, and this renewed agreement helps us maintain that commitment.”
It is easy to take standard networks for granted until a carriage dispute threatens to pull them away. For YouTube TV users who rely on The Weather Channel for their morning forecasts or severe storm coverage, this quiet, drama-free renewal is a massive win that keeps your channel guide right where you expect it to be.
SUBSCRIBE TO UPSTREAM
Get Chrome Unboxed delivered straight to your inbox
Upstream is our flagship, curated newsletter with the top stories, most click-worthy deals, giveaways, and trending articles from Chrome Unboxed sent directly to your inbox a few times a week. Join 31,000+ subscribers.
