US viewers can now stream full seasons of TV shows on YouTube for free—with ads.
Stream nearly 4,000 episodes of popular programs like Hell’s Kitchen, Andromeda, and Heartland, available to watch on the web, mobile devices, and “most” connected televisions (CTVs) via the YouTube TV app.
“More people are choosing to experience YouTube on the big screen with family and friends,” according to the video sharing platform, which reached more than 135 million US viewers on connected TVs in December, based on a Nielsen report.
The move comes long after companies like Plex, Roku, Vizio, and Samsung launched their own ad-supported streaming TV options. Free TV shows join the platform’s lineup of gratis ad-supported movies, including Gone in Sixty Seconds, Legally Blonde, and Runaway Bride. Bingers, beware: The company plans to add up to 100 shows and movies each week.
As an added bonus, YouTube is rolling out new streamlined navigation and immersive banner art, making it easier to find what you’re looking for while browsing from the comfort of your couch.
