YouTube TV has removed Univision’s local stations along with other TelevisaUnivision networks after failing to reach a contract renewal agreement. As a result, YouTube TV will provide a $6 credit or refund to affected Spanish basic subscribers if the channels remain unavailable for an extended period.
Alongside Univision, YouTube TV also dropped channels including Unimas and Galavision. DVR recordings of Univision programming have been erased from subscribers’ accounts. YouTube stated that while TelevisaUnivision generates significant viewership on platforms like YouTube, it represents only a small portion of content on YouTube TV.
In response, TelevisaUnivision condemned the decision, emphasizing that it deprives millions of Hispanic viewers of essential content, particularly during Hispanic Heritage Month, and criticized Google for its handling of the situation. They claimed YouTube’s actions were discriminatory, arguing that Hispanic viewers would face a price increase to access Univision through add-on packages.
The dispute has garnered attention from lawmakers, including Sen. Ted Cruz, who criticized the decision to require additional fees for Spanish-language networks, highlighting that it places Univision behind a “paywall.” Discussions between Google and NBCUniversal for a separate contract renewal continue, as their agreement is also set to expire soon.
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