YouTube TV has revolutionized how we consume television, offering various channels, unlimited DVR storage, and seamless streaming across multiple devices. However, to truly maximize the value of your subscription, it’s essential to delve into its many features and options.
Whether you’re a new user or a long-time subscriber, there are numerous strategies to ensure you’re getting the most out of this service. From optimizing your DVR settings to exploring add-on packages and utilizing parental controls, here are ten effective ways to make every dollar count with YouTube TV.
YouTube TV is significantly pricier than a Netflix subscription. So, if you’ve decided to invest in a membership, it’s crucial to make the most of every dollar. By following these tips, you can maximize your experience and stream like a pro.
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Record as Much as You Want With the Unlimited DVR
Transitioning to YouTube TV’s DVR from a traditional cable service can be an adjustment. The terminology differs (“Add to Library” instead of “Record”), and the absence of space restrictions means you can rethink how you approach recording.
With YouTube TV, there’s no need to be selective about what you record as you might have been with cable. To maximize your subscription, embrace the freedom to record as much content as possible.
Don’t overthink it—add it to your library. You have nothing to lose; recordings remain for nine months until they auto-delete.
Keep in mind, however, that adding a show to your library will record every future airing of the show. For series like The Office, which air frequently, you’ll quickly accumulate entire seasons or even the whole series. While there isn’t an option to record individual episodes, this approach allows you to build a comprehensive library of shows without interrupting commercials.
Consolidate Your Streaming Services With Add-ons
Navigating between different streaming apps can be one of the most cumbersome aspects of modern TV viewing. YouTube TV offers a streamlined solution. Much like Amazon’s Prime Channels, YouTube TV allows you to watch various add-ons within the same app.
From primary services like Max and Paramount+ to specialized ones like NFL Sunday Ticket, Qello Concerts, and Magellan TV, YouTube TV (and its counterpart, YouTube Primetime Channels) provides one of the most extensive selections of streaming services available in one place.
An added advantage is that some streaming services do not require a YouTube TV Base Plan. This means you can continue to enjoy services like STARZ or Hallmark Movies Now even if you pause your YouTube TV subscription during the NFL off-season, all without the hassle of switching apps.
One notable exception is YouTube Premium, which must still be offered as a bundle with YouTube TV.
Watch Live Sports in Eye-Popping 4K
Speaking of add-ons, the 4K Plus package enhances your viewing experience by enabling live event streaming in 4K resolution and offering additional features like offline downloads and unlimited simultaneous streams.
Originally priced at $19.99 per month, the cost of this add-on has been significantly reduced. Currently, it is available for $4.99 per month for the first 12 months following a 30-day free trial and then $9.99 per month after that.
Check-in On Every Game With Multiview
One of YouTube TV’s standout features is Multiview, which allows you to watch multiple channels simultaneously on a split screen—perfect for sports enthusiasts who want to monitor several games simultaneously.
While you can’t choose the exact channels included in Multiview, YouTube TV offers a pre-selected group of up to four sports or news channels based on current programming. Additionally, you can customize the order in which the channels are displayed using the “Build a Multiview” feature.
Customize Your Live Guide and Recommendations
As you would expect from a data-driven company like Google (YouTube’s parent company), YouTube TV offers personalized channels and show recommendations based on your watch history. However, every algorithm is flawed, and you can refine these suggestions.
To do this, log in to YouTube TV on the desktop version of the website. Next to the title of every show, you’ll see a three-dot icon. Click on this icon and select “Don’t Show Me This” to remove that show from your recommendations, helping tailor your viewing experience to better suit your preferences.
Decrease the Live Delay
Like most live TV streaming services, YouTube TV experiences a slight delay from live broadcasts. This can be frustrating, especially if your neighbors celebrate a touchdown before it appears on your screen.
To address this issue, YouTube TV offers an option to reduce the broadcast delay, though it may affect the quality of the live stream and cause rebuffering.
To enable this feature:
- Click on the menu with the three-dots icon while watching a live channel.
- Select “Broadcast delay,” then choose “Decreased” to minimize the delay or “Default” to maintain the standard setting.
- Keep in mind that this feature is still considered an “Experiment.”
- Hide Sports Scores to Avoid Spoilers
Another way to avoid sports spoilers is to turn off sports scores. While some screens on YouTube TV display scores and rankings, which can be helpful for some fans, they may frustrate those who still need to catch up on their recorded games.
To avoid these spoilers, navigate to the page for a sports team or league while logged in to YouTube TV from a web browser. Click on the icon with three dots and select “Hide all scores for this team/league.” This will hide the scores across all your devices, ensuring an uninterrupted viewing experience.
Keep Your Family’s Watch History Separate
YouTube TV allows you to share your account with up to five members as part of a “family group.” Each member will need their own Google account but can log in and access YouTube TV and any add-ons purchased by the family manager. Each member also gets their watch history and DVR, ensuring personalized recommendations that are unique to them.
Regarding location requirements, family group members must primarily watch YouTube TV in the same household, at a home location set by the family manager.
Turn Off Autoplay
You can easily disable this feature if you prefer to prevent shows from automatically playing while navigating through the menu on YouTube TV.
Here’s how to do it on the TV app:
- Select your profile icon located in the upper-right corner of the screen.
- Choose “Settings.”
- Navigate to “Autoplay on Start” and switch the setting to “Off.”
Refer Friends and Family to YouTube TV (and Save Some Money!)
If you know someone interested in YouTube TV, you can send them a referral link that will benefit both of you. When they sign up using your link, they’ll receive a discount, and you’ll earn a statement credit—making it a win-win situation!
To find your referral link:
- Go to “Settings” and select “Refer a Friend” on your computer, Android device, iPhone, or iPad.
You can refer up to 10 people, so don’t hesitate to share YouTube TV’s benefits with friends and family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is YouTube TV
YouTube TV is a live TV streaming service that offers access to major broadcast and cable networks. Subscribers can watch live TV, sports, news, and on-demand content.
How much does YouTube TV cost?
As of [current date], YouTube TV costs $64.99 monthly.
What channels are included with YouTube TV?
YouTube TV includes ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, CNN, HGTV, and more. The channel lineup may vary based on your location.
Can I record shows on YouTube TV?
Yes, YouTube TV includes unlimited cloud DVR storage, allowing you to record shows and movies to watch later.
How many devices can I stream on simultaneously with YouTube TV?
YouTube TV allows streaming on up to three devices simultaneously per account.
Can I watch YouTube TV on multiple screens?
YouTube TV supports watching on multiple screens, including smart TVs, streaming devices (like Roku or Apple TV), smartphones, and tablets.
Conclusion
YouTube TV offers a comprehensive live TV streaming experience with a robust lineup of channels, unlimited DVR storage, and flexibility to watch across multiple devices. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, news junkie, or entertainment lover, YouTube TV provides a user-friendly interface and features like personalized recommendations and family-sharing options. While it’s slightly more expensive than some streaming services, its content variety and convenience benefits make it a popular choice among viewers looking to cut the cord from traditional cable. With continuous updates and improvements, YouTube TV remains a strong contender in the competitive streaming landscape, catering to the diverse preferences of modern audiences.
