DIRECTV vs. Disney: YouTube TV Comes to the Rescue

By Phillip Swann
The TV Answer Man –Follow on X.

DIRECTV subscribers who have been looking for a short-term alternative now that they have lost the entire Disney suite of channels (including ESPN) should be happy to know that YouTube TV is now offering a three-week free trial.

There is one catch, however. The 21-day freebie is only available to new subscribers. If you previously subscribed to YouTube TV, or used its free trial, you are not eligible. You might be able to get a shorter trial, such as one for five days, if you sign up but not the three weeks.

If you are a new user, the three-week trial could be the perfect solution for DIRECTV customers. I have predicted the DIRECTV-Disney dispute will likely last two to four weeks, a forecast shared by some, and the three weeks of YouTube TV would allow you to continue watching the Disney channels without paying an extra dime in case it does go that long. (YouTube TV carries the Disney channels including ABC affiliates.)

Note that you will have to cancel your YouTube TV subscription before the 21 days are up or you will be charged for one month starting with day 22. YouTube TV’s sub rate is $72.99 a month but the streamer is offering $8 off each of the first four months.

YouTube TV is also offering new subscribers a one-week free trial to the NFL Sunday Ticket.

(A hat tip to the Michael Saves site for bringing this to my attention. It’s a great site for finding new deals on a variety of products and services.)

The TV Answer Man is veteran journalist Phillip Swann who has covered the TV technology scene for more than three decades. He will report on the latest news and answer your questions regarding new devices and services that are changing the way you watch television. See the bio for Phillip Swann here.

Have a question about new TV technologies? Send it to The TV Answer Man at swann@tvanswerman.com Please include your first name and hometown in your message.