Why is YouTube TV increasing by $10 a month in 2025?

YouTube TV has announced a price hike that has left many subscribers frustrated. The price for the service will increase to $82.99 per month starting January 13, 2025, marking a significant jump from the current rate of $72.99. This new price tag more than doubles the original cost of $40 per month when the service launched five years ago.

While the increase doesn’t affect trial or promotional plan subscribers, it’s a substantial hike for existing users, amounting to an additional $10 per month. New subscribers will be subject to the higher rate from the outset. Notably, this price increase does not include YouTube Premium, which costs an additional $13.99 per month and offers ad-free YouTube viewing and other features like background play for music and podcasts.

The announcement has been met with a wave of negative reactions on social media. YouTube TV initially deleted its first post about the hike due to the backlash, later reposting an explanation with more context to justify the decision. The company cited the rising cost of content as a primary reason for the increase, though it didn’t provide specifics. This follows last year’s removal of MLB Network and other local sports channels, which reduced the service’s sports content offering.

Despite the price hikes, YouTube TV emphasized its features, such as over 100 channels, the ability to stream on three devices simultaneously, up to six accounts per household, and unlimited DVR storage. Additionally, YouTube TV promised new shows and events in 2025 to justify the increased cost.

With over 8 million subscribers, YouTube TV remains the most popular paid TV service in the U.S., and while it may face cancellations, the company is unlikely to feel a significant impact. However, the timing of the announcement—just before the holidays—has sparked some criticism, as many subscribers feel this move dampens the holiday spirit.

In light of the backlash, YouTube TV concluded its message by thanking its members for their loyalty, though it’s unclear if this will be enough to soften the blow of the price increase.

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