You can watch live television and a wide variety of on-demand content on YouTube primarily through its subscription-based live TV streaming service, YouTube TV, which is accessible directly within the main YouTube app or via its standalone application.
Understanding YouTube TV
YouTube TV is a popular live TV streaming service that offers subscribers access to over 100 live TV channels from major broadcast networks, popular cable channels, and premium add-ons. It also includes unlimited cloud DVR storage, allowing you to record shows and movies to watch later. This service provides a comprehensive "TV" experience without the need for traditional cable or satellite.
Accessing YouTube TV Within the YouTube App
One convenient way to watch YouTube TV is by accessing it directly from the standard YouTube application you already use. This integration makes switching between regular YouTube videos and live TV seamless.
Here's how to open YouTube TV inside the YouTube app:
- Open the YouTube app: Launch the YouTube app on your preferred device, such as a smart TV, streaming stick, game console, or mobile phone.
- Navigate to the left-side menu: Once the app is open, move your cursor or tap to access the left-side navigation menu.
- Scroll to find YouTube TV: Scroll down the menu options. Near the bottom, you will find the "YouTube TV" option.
- Select YouTube TV: Choose "YouTube TV" to open the live TV service. If this is your first time accessing it this way, you will be prompted to sign in to your YouTube TV account.
Other Ways to Watch YouTube TV
Beyond integrating with the main YouTube app, you can also access YouTube TV through:
- Dedicated YouTube TV App: Download and install the specific YouTube TV app on compatible devices like smart TVs, Roku, Apple TV, Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, Xbox, PlayStation, and various mobile devices (iOS, Android).
- Web Browser: Visit the official YouTube TV website at tv.youtube.com on a computer or laptop.
Watching TV-Like Content on Standard YouTube
While YouTube TV offers traditional live TV, the main YouTube platform also hosts a vast amount of "TV-like" content that you can watch for free (with ads) or by purchasing/renting:
- Official Network Channels: Many TV networks and studios have official YouTube channels where they upload clips, full episodes, and behind-the-scenes content from their shows.
- Purchasable Movies & Shows: YouTube allows you to buy or rent a wide selection of movies and full TV show seasons from major studios. These are typically found in the "Movies & TV" section.
- Free, Ad-Supported Content: YouTube occasionally offers free movies and TV shows with advertisements, similar to some free streaming services. These can also be found in the "Movies & TV" hub.
- Creator Series: Independent creators and production companies often produce high-quality web series that resemble traditional TV shows in their narrative structure and production value.
Whether you're looking for live sports, news, entertainment channels, or specific episodes of your favorite series, YouTube offers multiple avenues to watch "TV" content.
