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Posted
4 hours ago, capnamerca said:

I have 0 insider knowledge here, but I would expect that the YTTV negotiating angle isn't just about TV/content distribution rights (because they don't have a leg to stand on), but rather strategic application of leverage either in search/ads to benefit the Mouse, or in cloud / hosting / infrastructure benefits to same. 

According to this article, Disney wants access to YTTV proprietary data analytics as well as make even base subscribers pay for ESPN Unlimited.  I am OK with alphabet holding firm.

 

 https://cordcuttersnews.com/youtube-tv-and-disney-negotiations-went-late-into-the-night-last-night-a-new-issue-is-now-the-main-focus/?amp=1

 

Spoiler

At the heart of the impasse, according to Sherman, is the integration of ESPN Unlimited content into the YouTube TV lineup and the associated pricing demands. ESPN Unlimited, Disney’s premium direct-to-consumer sports streaming service launched earlier this year, offers exclusive access to live events, on-demand replays, fantasy leagues, and advanced analytics not available through standard ESPN broadcasts. Disney has pushed aggressively for YouTube TV to bundle this service as part of its base package or at a subsidized rate, arguing that it represents the future of sports consumption and would enhance viewer retention on the platform.

YouTube TV, however, has resisted, citing the exorbitant costs that would inevitably be passed on to consumers. Sherman’s reporting highlights that Disney is seeking a per-subscriber fee structure that could add several dollars to monthly bills, a move YouTube TV deems unsustainable amid competitive pressures from rivals like Hulu + Live TV and Fubo. The platform has already faced subscriber backlash over recent price hikes, and absorbing ESPN Unlimited without corresponding revenue offsets risks alienating its core audience of budget-conscious users.

The broader context of these negotiations underscores the evolving dynamics in the streaming wars. Disney, under CEO Bob Iger’s leadership, has doubled down on its direct-to-consumer strategy, with ESPN Unlimited serving as a flagship product to combat cord-cutting trends. The service has garnered praise for its comprehensive coverage of niche sports, international leagues, and interactive features, but its premium pricing—rumored to start at $29.99 monthly standalone—makes bundling a complex proposition. YouTube TV executives reportedly countered with proposals for optional add-ons or tiered packages, allowing users to opt into ESPN Unlimited without inflating the core $72.99 base price, but Disney rejected these as insufficient for promoting the service’s growth.

Complicating matters further are ancillary issues tied to advertising revenue sharing and data analytics. Disney wants greater access to YouTube TV’s user metrics to tailor ESPN Unlimited promotions, while YouTube TV guards its proprietary data fiercely to maintain leverage in future deals. The failure to bridge these gaps after hours of deliberation signals deeper philosophical differences: Disney views YouTube TV as a distribution partner obligated to propel its ecosystem, whereas YouTube TV sees itself as a neutral aggregator prioritizing affordability and choice.

 

 

Posted

Got back from dinner and spent about 20 minutes rigging up digital antenna I bought, programming channels etc.  That's done, got it positioned and ABC locked in for tomorrow then switch back to YTTV just to make sure hadn't screwed that or any other apps up and there is Clemson-Louisville staring at me on the home screen.  🙄

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Posted

Seems like a huge "who fucking cares" https://www.cnbc.com/2025/11/14/google-disney-reach-deal-to-restore-espn-abc-others-to-youtube-tv.html

"YouTube said it has the option for future program packages with Disney and other partners. 

Disney said that access to a selection of live and on-demand programming from ESPN Unlimited, which includes content from ESPN+ and new content on its all-inclusive digital service coming later this year, will be available on YouTube TV to base plan subscribers at no additional cost by the end of 2026."

Posted
1 minute ago, FletchLives said:

I'm getting "Live ABC isn't available in this area yet" in Austin.

It's 23 hours until gametime and it's airing on ESPN4K anyway which is choice since they just usually go to stadium shots during commercial breaks.  

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Posted
32 minutes ago, Macklemore said:

If you set up a custom guide you have to re-select all the Disney channels and order them to your liking otherwise they’re at the very end of your guide 

 

Just got on the website, and mine were still in the same spot I put them.

Haven't got on the app yet, got HBO going.

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