In a surprising move for a streaming service, Fubo has announced a price reduction for some of its subscription plans. This sports-focused virtual multichannel video programming distributor (vMVPD), now under Disney's ownership following an acquisition in October, will lower prices for certain 'Live TV' plans starting with billing cycles on or after January 1, 2026. This adjustment affects plans featuring a wide range of channels, including non-sports networks like FX and The Disney Channel.
Here are the new prices:
- Essential: $74 per month (previously $85/month)
- Pro: $75/month (previously $85/month)
- Elite: $84/month (previously $95/month)
Fubo's move to decrease prices contrasts typical announcements from streaming services, which often result in cost increases for consumers. Nevertheless, many subscribers consider this change a necessary adjustment rather than a bonus, given that Fubo has been without NBCUniversal channels since November 21. The blacked-out channels include local NBC affiliates, Telemundo, several regional sports channels, and others like Bravo, CNBC, MSNBC, and USA Network. A $15 credit was previously offered by Fubo as compensation for this blackout.
A Fubo spokesperson explained to Ars Technica that these new prices are a reflection of NBCU's decision to pull its networks from Fubo. When asked if these prices would remain if NBCUniversal channels were reinstated, the representative stated that it would be speculative to comment on future pricing decisions.
Fubo’s NBCUniversal Blackout
On November 25, Fubo released a statement regarding its negotiations with NBCUniversal, claiming that NBCU has been demanding excessive fees for channels that are soon to be part of a new company, Versant. Versant is set to launch in January, following the spinoff of NBCUniversal’s cable channels and other digital assets. Despite Fubo's willingness to distribute Versant channels for one year, NBCU insisted on a multi-year contract, effectively asking Fubo subscribers to subsidize these future channels, according to Fubo's statement.