YouTube TV Restores Univision Channels After Contract Dispute

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YouTube TV has reinstated Univision, UNIMÁS, TUDN, and Galavisión following a new multiyear carriage agreement with TelevisaUnivision. The channels return after nearly two months offline, completing one of the last major gaps in the lineup for YouTube TV’s 8 million subscribers.

Returning Channels and Programming

  • Univision: Flagship network with telenovelas, news, and reality TV
  • UNIMÁS: General entertainment and primetime programming
  • TUDN: Premier sports coverage including Liga MX, Concacaf, and Mexican national team
  • Galavisión: Movies, series, and family entertainment

These networks join YouTube TV’s Base Plan and Spanish add-ons, restoring weekend soccer windows and cultural programming that had been noticeably absent.

Impact for Spanish-Speaking Viewers

With over 41 million Spanish speakers in the U.S., these channels represent essential cultural and sports content. The blackout particularly affected live soccer audiences during Liga MX and international matches, highlighting the importance of Spanish-language networks in pay-TV retention.

What Subscribers Can Expect

  • Channels return to previous guide positions with full live and on-demand access
  • Cloud DVR recordings from blackout period remain playable if rights allow
  • New recordings and sports highlights resume immediately
  • No announced price changes related to the restoration

Broader Context of Carriage Disputes

Carriage battles have transitioned from cable to virtual MVPDs like YouTube TV, Hulu Live, and Fubo. Programmers seek higher fees to cover sports rights while distributors resist price hikes that drive churn. Securing TelevisaUnivision provides lineup stability and premium soccer content central to subscriber retention.

Next Steps and Promotions

Expect promotional focus on live soccer, awards shows, and reality programming that attracts multi-generational audiences. The deal may expand digital rights including on-demand windows and cross-platform authentication, following industry trends in recent renewals.

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