In an apparent move to prevent disruptions to YouTube TV customers, Google has been sending some customers e-mails offering free TiVo Stream 4K and Chromecast devices.
Roku and YouTube TV has been engaged in a contract feud for the last several weeks. YouTube TV had previously been removed from Roku’s channel store. Users who already had the app installed are still allowed to continue streaming on the device.
TechHive had previously reported that Roku has accused Google of “unfair” and “anticompetitive” behavior.
Specifically, Roku claims Google wants to “manipulate your search results” while demanding streaming devices use pricier chipsets.
Some customers are receiving e-mails that offer a free TiVo Stream 4K while others are being offered Chromecast with Google TV devices. An example of an e-mail sent out by YouTube TV states:
To ensure our loyal YouTube TV members have a great watch experience (including the ability to watch 4K content on our optional new add-on service coming soon!), we want to offer you a free TiVo® Stream 4K device.
The TiVo Stream 4K regularly costs $39.99 and Chromecast with Google TV is $49.99. Customers will have until the end of the month to redeem the special offer.
Only time will tell if the two companies are able to eventually reach a settlement or if YouTube TV will be removed from Roku devices permanently.
