YouTube TV has kicked off 2026 with a major update for its Android and iOS apps. The popular streaming platform is now rolling out a major redesign to its Live Guide, offering an experience somewhat identical to YouTube TV’s UI for TV sets back in 2023. Previously, the Live tab used to feature a minimalist list, featuring channels at the top of your screen with a preview. That has changed massively with the latest Live Guide redesign on mobile.
The update brings a major Live Guide redesign, though the YouTube TV app still lacks the core design language
The YouTube TV Live Guide redesign moves channel icons to the left. Additionally, you now have to swipe to see what’s coming up. There’s also a static “Jump to live” button at the bottom, which makes it easy to jump onto what’s streaming live. If you prefer to use the “Sort” menu, you’ll now find it in the top-left corner. The said menu lets you reorganize the Live Guide based on your preferences, such as favorites or categories.
The redesigned Live Guide in YouTube TV also makes it easier to check the channel preview. In the updated UI, you must long-press on a program tile to see a floating sheet that overlays the Live Guide. It not only reveals the live preview but also displays the detailed description of the episode. As folks at 9to5Google note, you’ll be able to choose from different actions. It includes “Add to library,” “Set a reminder,” “Go to [program],” and “Go to [channel].”
Although YouTube TV is rolling out the redesigned UI to Live Guide, it has yet to fully adopt YouTube’s design language. That’s because some parts of the YouTube TV, like the Library and Home tabs, are yet to be updated. That’s not all; the bottom navigation bar continues to use the older icons. Meanwhile, the overhauled design language has already been rolled out to the primary YouTube app and YouTube Music.
The redesigned Live Guide is reportedly rolling out to every mobile app user
As reported, most mobile users are seeing the updated UI for Live Guide on the YouTube TV app. If you’re not seeing it for some reason, we recommend updating the app to the latest version from the Google Play Store and App Store. As a last resort, you can try force stopping the app or simply close and reopen the app.
