In recent weeks, contract negotiations have been underway between Google and Roku. It is now official that Roku has removed YouTube TV from its Channel Store.
The two companies had a contract that was about to run out. Unfortunately, it appears that they couldn’t come to a new agreement, according to several sources.
It’s worth noting that if you currently subscribe to YouTube TV, you’ll still be able to use the app. This will be true at least for now, unless Google takes it off Roku devices entirely.
Roku spokesperson Dallas Lawrence told USA Today that the company is disappointed with Google. Roku believes Google let the contract end without considering other options.
Here’s a portion of Lawrence’s statement:
“For a long time now, Google should’ve adopted the principles that made streaming a hit for millions. They should give consumers control of their streaming experience. Google should embrace fair competition and stop its anti-competitive practices.”
While the removal of YouTube TV from Roku’s Channel Store might be a surprise, there were hints about this in the days leading up to it.
YouTube TV addressed the issue on social media:
We’ve been working with Roku to try and reach a mutually beneficial agreement. An agreement that benefits our viewers and their customers. We’re sorry that some of you got a message from Roku during these ongoing talks.
— YouTube TV (@YouTubeTV) April 26, 2021
In the tweet, YouTube TV says it regrets that users might have seen Roku’s message while they were still in talks.
Roku emailed its customers about the YouTube TV situation earlier this week.
Below is the content of Roku’s email:
Roku stated that Google wanted to manipulate search results for its benefit. They also claimed Google wanted to change the Roku user experience.
YouTube TV responded that Roku’s claims were unfounded.
We are disappointed that Roku chose to make unsubstantiated claims and use these sorts of strategies during these negotiations. We are going to keep working with Roku to make sure our members have a great viewing experience. We’re hopeful we can find a solution.
— YouTube TV (@YouTubeTV) April 26, 2021
Disagreements between major streaming companies and the makers of streaming hardware are likely to continue.
As more and more people ditch cable, situations like this will likely become more common.
TROYPOINT TIP: If you want the best streaming experience, we don’t recommend Roku. The Amazon Firestick is a good choice. It’s affordable, it can be easily “jailbroken”, and offers a lot more.
Roku vs Firestick – Why Roku Isn’t a Good Buy
Our Jailbreak Firestick Tutorial offers a step-by-step guide. You’ll learn how to “unlock” any Firestick or Fire TV device for movies, TV, games, and more!
We don’t suggest Roku, but if you’re already using one and need a good live TV provider, try fuboTV. New users get a totally free 7-day trial!
Want to learn more about live TV? Our popular IPTV guide covers the best services, apps, players, streaming devices, and more.
For more Roku tutorials, take a look at the resources below.
To get more details about the Roku and YouTube TV dispute, watch the video below.
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