YouTube TV is a popular live TV streaming service that offers access to over 100 channels, including sports, news, entertainment, and more. It has become increasingly popular due to its competitive pricing and cloud DVR features.
While YouTube TV is currently only available in the United States, it does offer some content and features in languages other than English. Here is what you need to know about switching languages on YouTube TV and optimizing the service for your language needs:
Table of Contents
Checking Available Languages
The default language for YouTube TV is English. However, some channels or programs may be available with alternate language audio or subtitles.
To check if a specific channel or program has alternate language options:
- While watching a channel or program, click on the CC icon in the player toolbar to see if other subtitles or closed caption languages are available.
- Check the audio language by clicking on the gear icon in the player. This will show all available audio tracks for that content.
So even though the overall YouTube TV interface is English, some of the actual content may include other languages.
Enabling Alternate Audio Languages
If you find a program that has alternate language audio available, you can set that audio track as the default:
On Mobile:
- Tap your profile picture > Settings
- Select “Default Audio Track”
- Choose your preferred language
On TV:
- Go to Settings > Default audio track
- Select your preferred language
This will play programs in that language audio whenever available, without having to manually change it each time.
Using Closed Captions and Subtitles
In addition to alternate audio languages, some programs may offer subtitles or closed captions in other languages:
- To enable subtitles/CC, click on the CC icon in the player toolbar while watching a program
- Select your preferred language from the list
This can be helpful if you want to view the program in English audio but also read subtitles in another language.
Limitations of Alternate Languages
While the ability to switch languages on YouTube TV is handy, there are some limitations:
- The core YouTube TV interface and menus cannot be changed from English
- Only some programs/channels offer alternate languages
- Language availability can vary by location
So you won’t be able to completely change the service into another language. But the ability to enable alternate audio tracks and subtitles provides helpful multilingual support.
Using YouTube TV Overseas
Since YouTube TV is focused on US audiences, those traveling overseas face some restrictions when accessing the service:
- Due to licensing agreements, YouTube TV is only accessible in the US without a VPN
- Using a VPN to bypass geographic restrictions violates YouTube TV’s Terms of Service
So if you plan to travel outside the US and want to access YouTube TV, be prepared for disruptions or inability to stream content. The only way to reliably access it abroad is by remaining connected to US-based servers with a VPN, which breaks YouTube TV’s rules.
Tips for Finding Content in Other Languages
Here are some tips for locating programs on YouTube TV available with alternate language options:
- Check major Spanish language channels like Telemundo, Univision, and ESPN Deportes
- Enable “Alternate Audio” for programs when available
- Search for movies or shows with “CC” or subtitles icon
- Set preferred subtitle language to auto-enable when available
While YouTube TV itself is still English-based, focusing on the above areas can help surface content with the languages you need.
Future Expansion to Other Languages
YouTube TV has major room for growth when it comes to supporting multiple languages. As it continues expanding internationally, adding support for other interfaces languages is likely.
Potential future language support may include:
- Spanish interface and menus
- Additional alternate audio tracks
- Wider selection of closed captions and subtitles
Opening up YouTube TV to more languages would allow broader accessibility and appeal to diverse audiences across the US and abroad.
Summary
In summary:
- YouTube TV is currently English-only for its core interface
- Some programs offer alternate language audio or subtitles
- Switch languages using the player toolbar or video settings
- Traveling overseas limits access due to licensing
- Finding Spanish content is currently the best option
- Future translations of the interface are likely
Hopefully this guide has helped explain both the possibilities and limitations around switching languages on YouTube TV. While not yet a fully multilingual platform, enhancements in language accessibility and content diversity on YouTube TV continue improving over time.
