YouTube TV 2026: YouTube to Launch over 10 Genre-Based Channel Packs
The traditional cable-style bundle is getting a cut as early as 2026, when YouTube TV will unveil a new genre-based channel packs system. Here are the details about the new packs, the potential changes in pricing, and the features that subscribers will still be able to enjoy.
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YouTube TV to Go Ahead with Genre-Based Channel Packs in 2026: What’s New?
One of the most significant changes in YouTube TV's history will be its switch to a new genre-based packing system slated to happen in early 2026, allowing the streaming service to move away from the orthodox cable-style bundle. With this shift, users will only be able to subscribe to specific genres which means that the platform will be more versatile and customized than ever before.
(Note: YouTube TV is still not accessible in India.)
What are these new channel packs?
YouTube has disclosed that the new lineup will consist of a dedicated sports pack, which belongs to the category of the most-watched ones on YouTube. The sport bundle will probably comprise channels like:
FS1
NBC Sports
ESPN's complete network lineup
The new ESPN Unlimited service
Sports followers will also still be able to choose the premium options like NFL Sunday Ticket and RedZone just like they do now.
So, you can see that YouTube also committed to providing users with the important features that would be available in all packs which would include:
Unlimited DVR
Multiview
Key Plays
Fantasy tracking
More packs on the way
Although YouTube has not disclosed the complete list yet, TechCrunch claims that packs based on news, kids, and even entertainment are also being worked on. This clearly indicates that we are transitioning to a new era of streaming with mix-and-match subscriptions that are gradually replacing the traditional cable bundles.
YouTube Enhances A/B Testing Tools for Creators
YouTube is introducing a major update for creators along with the major subscription changes. The company is increasing the scope of its A/B testing tool, giving YouTube creators not only the ability to test three variants for:
Titles
Thumbnails
or both optionally
For a period of up to two weeks, each variant will be randomly presented to different groups of viewers, and YouTube will automatically pick the one that has garnered the most watch time as the winner. Creators can, however, change the automatic selection if required.
The results of the tests will be shown as:
Winner
Performed Same
Default to Version 1 (if no clear outcome)
YouTube similarly cautions that tests may not succeed if:
Variations are too close to each other
Videos receive insufficient impressions
The platform assures, however, that it gives preference to watch time over click-through rate, thus, the thumbnails and titles would be really what the viewers' expectations are and would promote good interactions—not misleading clicks.
