Comcast reached an agreement with NBC Sports Bay Area and NBC Sports California that has resulted in the regional sports networks being moved to a more expensive tier, requiring users to upgrade to receive access to local broadcasts of the San Francisco Giants, Golden State Warriors, San Jose Sharks, Sacramento Kings and Athletics. The networks had previously been available on the Popular TV package, accounting for a price difference of approximately $20 per month as of Tuesday, which is when the change went into effect. A similar move took place in Boston with NESN and NBC Sports Boston agreeing to deals with Xfinity moving to the higher tier.
According to a Comcast spokesperson, company data demonstrates that most viewers of regional sports networks are already subscribed to the Ultimate TV tier. Furthermore, the company conveyed that the decision to make this move was related to augmented programming costs, particularly as it relates to sports broadcasting rights. The company is offering promotional deals for users who are looking to upgrade their subscription plan. Conversely, customers who are subscribed to the Popular TV fan will have a reduction in fees.
“Comcast is pleased to have reached agreements with NBC Sports Bay Area and NBC Sports California to continue offering their networks in a way that reflects the changing video marketplace for local sports and provides our customers with a choice,” Comcast said in a statement. “We are notifying customers that effective [January 14, 2025], NBC Sports Bay Area and NBC Sports California will be available on the Ultimate TV level of service. While the majority of customers shouldn’t be impacted, we have promotional offers for customers with Popular TV service who want to continue receiving NBC Sports Bay Area and NBC Sports California.”
In addition to the aforementioned regional sports networks, the Ultimate TV subscription tier also includes league-owned networks, along with seven additional sports networks and more than 50 other channels. NBC Sports Philadelphia is remaining on the Popular TV tier at the moment, but Comcast has moved approximately 30 RSNs to its Ultimate TV tier for over a year as carriage agreements approach expiration.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.
