The news: YouTube is leaning into its role as the new TV with the launch of its “Stations” offering—a feature providing 24/7 access to linear-style channels that directly take on traditional TV.

• YouTube is beginning with “Coachella TV” this month, a channel that will offer continued access to 2026 festival highlights and archived performances; YouTube will simultaneously live stream the festival.
• The platform will eventually offer a range of TV-style channels covering different content; YouTube creators will be able to make their own channels by creating playlists that are then turned into a 24/7 stream.

YouTube encroaches on TV: Digital platforms are quickly becoming the default for TV viewing—and as the largest media platform globally, YouTube is driving the change.