YouTube TV’s custom Multiview update has some major strings attached

Source: Android Authority

TL;DR

• YouTube TV multiview is finally loosening up, so now you can build your own split‑screen instead of relying on Google’s preset combos.
• There are still limits: only live content works, meaning no DVR recordings or on‑demand shows in multiview.
• Device support isn’t universal; a small number of older devices get a stripped‑down version limited to major events.

Customizable Multiview Arrives

Multiview on Google’s live TV service has always been a bit hit or miss. You could watch up to four streams at once, but you couldn’t choose which streams to watch—Google picked the combinations, forcing users to scroll through presets that often didn’t fit their needs.

Now Google is finally relaxing this frustrating limit on YouTube TV (source), though it’s not completely open yet.

Starting this week, YouTube TV is officially launching a fully customizable multiview for almost every device (official announcement). A limited rollout began last week (details), and more users can now choose any live channel—mixing NFL Sunday Ticket with local news or a soccer match—and create their own split‑screen layout.

How It Works

1. Press the multiview button.
2. Filters appear (Sports, News, Shows, Movies) plus a Recommended row based on your viewing habits.
3. Pick any live content, and it appears on your screen in the layout you choose.

Limitations to Keep in Mind

• Live‑only content: DVR recordings and on‑demand videos cannot be added to a multiview.
• Family‑friendly restrictions: Some content is blocked from the feature; Google has not published a list of affected shows.

Device Compatibility

• Less than 5 % of older living‑room and mobile devices won’t have access to the full custom builder.
• Those devices receive a limited version that only works for major events such as the NFL or World Cup.
• Users with newer streaming boxes, tablets, or phones can start using the feature immediately; the rollout will continue over the next few weeks for remaining devices.