NBCUniversal and Google have unveiled a comprehensive, multi-year distribution agreement designed to broaden access to a diverse array of content for millions of viewers worldwide. The partnership, announced today, solidifies the collaboration between the two industry giants, ensuring that NBCUniversal’s extensive portfolio of programming remains a cornerstone of Google’s streaming platforms, including YouTube TV, YouTube Primetime Channels, and Google TV.
The long-term agreement comes after a carriage dispute that put the NBC-owned channels in jeopardy of being dropped from the streaming service when the contract expired on September 30. The two companies agreed to a short-term extension while they continued negotiations before announcing an agreement Thursday.
“Our new agreement with Google is a clear win for both our business and our viewers – underscoring the enduring value of our must-see shows, films, sports, and live events while expanding our reach to even more audiences,” said Matt Schnaars, President of Platform Distribution & Partnerships at NBCUniversal. “We’ve secured long-term access to our full portfolio of broadcast and cable networks on YouTube TV, and we’re advancing our Peacock strategy with an upcoming launch on YouTube Primetime Channels and ongoing presence on Google TV. This agreement positions us for continued growth and reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional entertainment to fans across platforms.”
This agreement marks a pivotal step in adapting to the rapidly evolving media landscape, prioritizing flexibility and accessibility for audiences who increasingly demand content on their terms. By securing long-term carriage of NBCUniversal’s full suite of broadcast and cable networks, the deal guarantees that channels such as NBC, Telemundo, Bravo, CNBC, Golf Channel, E!, Oxygen True Crime, MSNBC, USA, Syfy, and Universo will continue to be available to YouTube TV subscribers. This ensures that viewers can enjoy a wide range of programming, from news and entertainment to sports and lifestyle content, without interruption.
A key highlight of the partnership is the upcoming launch of the NBC Sports Network (NBCSN) on YouTube TV later this fall. This new network will serve as a dedicated hub for NBCUniversal’s extensive sports programming, complementing the sports content already available on the NBC broadcast network. The addition of NBCSN underscores the companies’ commitment to delivering premium sports experiences, catering to fans eager for live events, highlights, and exclusive coverage.
The agreement also strengthens the presence of Peacock, NBCUniversal’s streaming service, across Google’s ecosystem. In the coming months, Peacock will be offered as a subscription through YouTube Primetime Channels, providing viewers with seamless access to its vast library of shows, movies, and originals. Additionally, Peacock will maintain its availability on Google’s Android platforms, including Google Play and Google TV, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices.
Further deepening the collaboration, the deal includes provisions for short-form content, with clips, highlights, and select programming from NBCUniversal’s premium offerings to be featured on YouTube. This move caters to the growing demand for bite-sized, shareable content that resonates with digital audiences. Meanwhile, Universal Pictures Home Entertainment’s films and TV shows will remain available for purchase or rental on Google TV, YouTube TV, and YouTube, while iconic library titles from NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution will be accessible for streaming through YouTube Premium’s subscription video-on-demand service and YouTube’s free, ad-supported Primetime Content.
This strategic partnership reflects both companies’ focus on innovation and audience engagement. By combining NBCUniversal’s rich content portfolio with Google’s expansive digital platforms, the agreement positions them to meet the needs of a global audience while driving growth in an increasingly competitive streaming market. The collaboration not only reinforces the value of premium entertainment but also sets the stage for future advancements in how content is delivered and consumed.
Here are the highlights:
- A multi-year, long-term commitment for carriage of NBCUniversal’s full portfolio of networks on YouTube TV, including NBC, Telemundo, Bravo, CNBC, Golf Channel, E!, Oxygen True Crime, MSNBC, USA, Syfy and Universo;
- Later this fall, NBCUniversal will be launching the new NBC Sports Network (NBCSN), which will be available on YouTube TV, allowing fans to enjoy a broad range of NBCUniversal’s robust sports programming. NBCSN will complement the prominent sports properties presented year-round on the NBC broadcast network.
- Peacock will be available in the coming months as a subscription through YouTube Primetime Channels;
- A long-term agreement for short-form clips, highlights and shows from NBCUniversal’s premium programming on YouTube;
- Films and TV shows from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment will continue to be available to buy or rent on Google TV, YouTube TV and YouTube, as well as iconic library films from NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution beingavailableto stream via SVOD on YouTube Premium and AVOD through YouTube Free Primetime Content; and
- A multi-year extension of Peacock’s availability across Google’s Android platforms, including Google Play and Google TV.
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