Google announced YouTube TV in early March and launched the service in early April. The decision to pursue linear television
could give the company a leg-up in the increasingly competitive online streaming arena (Facebook with Live and video tab, Twitter with live video / Periscope, Amazon with Prime / NFL)
At $35/mo, YouTube is priced reasonably well versus AT&T DirecTV Now ($35-60), PS Vue ($40-75), and Sling TV ($20-40). The channel offering is compelling (includes CBS), but not without absences (no Viacom, Time Warner). The feature set appears competitive, with an unlimited 9-month DVR, simulcast capabilities x3, regional sports access and YouTube Red Originals access.
YouTube's brand, viewership and capital position the platform for streaming leadership, and we could see YouTube TV potentially positioning YouTube as a primary video hub for both Internet and linear TV longer term.
