YouTube is adding 34 local markets to its YouTube TV bundled streaming video service, making it available in more than 80 metropolitan areas, the company says.
These new markets include New Orleans, Tucson, Spokane, Wash., Providence, R.I., and Des Moines, Iowa.
YouTube TV is the company’s attempt at creating a “skinny bundle” of television channels, combining local broadcast stations, a limited selection of cable channels and digital video content into one package. It is distinct from its YouTube Red streaming service, though Red original shows are available on YouTube TV.
In order to have local stations included in the service, YouTube has cut deal with media companies' owned and operated stations, like NBCUniversal and 21st Century Fox, as well as independent stations and companies that own stations, like Sinclair Broadcasting and Meredith Corp.
YouTube TV has had a major push in recent months, including becoming the lead sponsor of Fox’s coverage of the MLB World Series.
The service is also a brand-safe environment for advertisers, with inventory sold against established TV and digital programming, the company claims. YouTube has had problems with brand safety in recent months for many of its user-controlled accounts, with ads appearing next to offensive or objectionable material.
YouTube is hoping to target consumers looking to trim or cut the cord, as well as cord-nevers, who have never before subscribed to a pay-TV service.
