Core Viewpoint - Alphabet and Disney have reached an agreement to restore ABC and ESPN content on YouTube TV after a two-week standoff, which had resulted in the absence of several live sporting events from the platform [1][2]. Group 1: Agreement Details - The agreement allows subscribers to see channels like ABC, ESPN, and FX returning to YouTube TV, along with previously recorded content [2][3]. - YouTube TV offered $20 credits to subscribers during the dispute due to the removal of over 20 Disney-owned channels, including FX, NatGeo, Disney Channel, and Freeform [3]. Group 2: Financial Aspects - The main issue in negotiations was the rate Disney charges YouTube TV for its networks, with ESPN charging over $10 per month per pay-TV subscriber, the highest fee among U.S. networks [4]. - YouTube TV has the option for future program packages with Disney and other partners, indicating potential for further negotiations [6]. Group 3: Industry Context - This incident is part of a broader trend where YouTube TV has faced similar disputes with other media companies, including NBCUniversal and Fox, highlighting ongoing tensions between streaming services and traditional media [5].
Google and Disney reach deal to restore ESPN, ABC to YouTube TV