iWorld
YouTube introduces budget-friendly TV packages in US
The move aims to attract cord-cutters and redefine the traditional cable model.
CALIFORNIA: YouTube is performing some digital surgery on the traditional cable bundle, carving out smaller, cheaper packages for viewers who are tired of paying for channels they never watch. According to a report by Bloomberg, the tech titan is set to launch a range of skinny bundles, including a dedicated sports plan priced at $65 per month.
For those who live for the weekend whistle but couldn’t care less about reality TV, the new sports-only tier offers a significant win. At $65, it sits roughly 22 per cent cheaper than the standard $83 YouTube TV everything buffet.
This plan isn’t just a rehash of old cable; it will blend major broadcast networks with select sports content that was once the exclusive territory of niche streaming platforms. And this isn’t just a one-off play for the stadium crowd. YouTube is reportedly prepping more than 10 different bundles themed around:
Live sports: The heavy hitters and broadcast staples.
Breaking news: For the headline junkies.
Entertainment: Strictly for the drama and comedy fans.
YouTube CEO Neal Mohan took to X to champion the move, stating that the new structure is designed to give consumers more “choice and control” over their screens.
Traditionally, media moguls have guarded the big bundle like a dragon guarding gold. They preferred forcing viewers to buy a hundred channels just to get the five they actually wanted. However, the tide is turning. According to research firm MoffettNathanson, traditional TV companies have lost more than 30 million customers over the last 10 years.
YouTube TV has been the primary beneficiary of this exodus, now boasting more than 10 million subscribers. This makes it the third-largest TV distributor in the US, trailing only behind industry veterans Charter and Comcast.
While YouTube is famous for its free cat videos, its paid-for side is becoming a financial powerhouse. According to the company, subscription revenue (including YouTube Premium) now rakes in roughly $20 billion annually. When you add the advertising juggernaut into the mix, the total video business is worth upwards of $60 billion.
By offering more targeted, affordable bundles, YouTube is not only catering to niche audiences but also accelerating the shift away from bloated cable packages. With a growing subscriber base and a rapidly expanding paid ecosystem, the company is positioning itself as a dominant force in the evolving TV landscape, proving that even in the age of cat videos, YouTube knows how to play the game when it comes to serious entertainment and sports.
iWorld
Zee Music elevates Sujal Parekh to senior management personnel role
Former Warner Music executive to drive next phase of music growth
MUMBAI: Zee Music Company has elevated Sujal Parekh to the role of senior management personnel, signalling a sharper push on scaling its music business.
Parekh, who currently serves as business head at the company, will now spearhead the next phase of growth, with a focus on expanding Zee Music’s footprint across platforms and audiences.
With over two decades of experience, Parekh brings a strong mix of financial and operational leadership, largely within the media and entertainment sector. Prior to joining Zee Music, he held key leadership roles at Warner Music Group, where he served as general manager operations for India and SAARC, and earlier as finance director for the region.
During his tenure at Warner, Parekh played a central role in strengthening the company’s regional presence. He led the acquisition and integration of platforms such as Divo TV, E-Positive, SkillBox and Global Music Junction, helping expand its reach across digital media, regional content, artist management and live entertainment.
Before Warner, Parekh spent over a decade with Bigtree Entertainment Pvt. Ltd., where he rose through the ranks across finance roles, eventually serving as associate vice president finance.
His early career included stints in audit and accounting, building a solid foundation that has underpinned his leadership journey in the music and media business.
With this elevation, Zee Music is clearly tuning its leadership bench for growth, betting on Parekh’s blend of strategic and operational expertise to hit the right notes in an increasingly competitive music landscape.
