YouTube TV subscribers can now finally access ESPN Unlimited content directly from the app in the sports section, a feature that was promised following the protracted carriage dispute between YouTube TV and Disney late last year.
After months of waiting, YouTube TV users who subscribe to a package that includes ESPN will now have access to the full suite of content offered by ESPN at no additional cost. The news was reported by Cord Cutters on Monday, with YouTube TV subscribers able to link their YouTube and ESPN accounts to access the exclusive content.
This means that YouTube TV subscribers can now enjoy live content that is exclusive to ESPN Unlimited, such as WWE's premium live events and grand slam tennis tournaments, at no additional cost. They will also have access to out-of-market NHL games, PGA Tour Live, and college athletics not scheduled for ESPN's linear networks.
The inclusion of ESPN Unlimited in YouTube TV packages was promised when ESPN launched its new app last August, which included the new tier. However, major providers like Comcast and YouTube TV waited many months before gaining access, with YouTube TV being the last major provider to come on board.
The good news for YouTube TV subscribers is that they will not even need to launch a separate app in order to access all of the live content ESPN Unlimited has to offer. Live programming from the ESPN app will be integrated directly into the YouTube TV interface, making it easy for users to find and watch their favorite content.
The rollout brings to a close the nearly year-long saga of ESPN Unlimited's accessibility issues. While the bumpy launch and poor messaging around who would and would not be able to access the app's Unlimited tier caused headaches for fans and bad publicity for ESPN, the network has ultimately delivered on its promise.
The integration of ESPN Unlimited into YouTube TV is a significant development for sports fans, who will now have access to a wide range of exclusive content without having to pay extra. It remains to be seen how other streaming services will respond to this move, but for now, YouTube TV subscribers can finally enjoy the full benefits of their ESPN subscription.
Source: Yahoo Sports