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To sign in on a TV, open the YouTube TV app, scan its QR code or visit tv.youtube.com/start on another device, enter the code shown on the TV, choose the Google Account linked to your YouTube TV Base Plan, and select Allow. On a phone or tablet, open the YouTube TV app, tap Sign in, and select that same account.
Sign in to YouTube TV on a television
The TV activation flow uses a phone, tablet, or computer to confirm the account. You can also enter your account details with the TV remote if you prefer.
- Open the YouTube TV app on your smart TV, streaming device, or game console. If it is not installed, look for it in the device’s app store; availability depends on the device model. The YouTube TV app is separate from the regular YouTube app, although some devices provide a way to open YouTube TV from inside YouTube. Check YouTube TV app installation guidance.
- When the sign-in screen appears, scan its QR code with another device, or open tv.youtube.com/start in a browser. Alternatively, choose the TV’s remote sign-in option and use the on-screen keyboard.
- If using the code flow, enter the activation code displayed on the television and continue.
- Select the Google Account associated with your YouTube TV Base Plan. If prompted, select Allow to connect the TV.
The QR/code route is convenient when another device is nearby; remote entry is an alternative if you would rather complete the process on the TV. Follow the on-screen prompts, as labels and screens may vary by device.
If the activation code does not work
It may have expired. Return to the YouTube TV app on the television and reload the activation screen to get a fresh code, then enter that new code at tv.youtube.com/start. Do not keep trying an old code. YouTube TV’s sign-in help describes refreshing an expired activation code.
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Sign in on a phone or tablet
- Open the YouTube TV app.
- Tap Sign in, typically in the top-right corner.
- Choose the Google Account linked to the YouTube TV Base Plan. If it is not listed, tap Add account and sign in with that Google Account.
Fix common sign-in and access problems
Work through the checks below in order. A successful Google sign-in does not by itself guarantee that the selected account is the one associated with the YouTube TV Base Plan.
- Verify the Google Account. Sign out or switch accounts and select the one associated with the Base Plan. A different Google Account already signed in on the device may not provide the intended access.
- Refresh the TV activation code. If the code is rejected or the activation screen is stuck, reload that screen on the TV and use the newly displayed code.
- Restart the app and device. YouTube’s general sign-in troubleshooting recommends restarting as an initial step. See YouTube sign-in troubleshooting.
- Check for app updates and device support. Update the relevant app and confirm your TV, streaming device, or console is supported. Compatibility varies by model; consult the current device and installation guidance. If appropriate, reset the app, bearing in mind that a reset may sign you out.
- Use Google Account recovery if sign-in fails everywhere. If you cannot sign in to the Google Account on any device, follow the recovery guidance linked from YouTube’s sign-in troubleshooting page.
- Review billing alerts if you are signed in but cannot access the service. Check the payment method and any notices in Google Payments if an account or payment alert appears. YouTube TV billing and payment help provides relevant guidance.
Get help from YouTube TV
If the account and device checks do not resolve the issue, open YouTube TV Help while signed in and choose Contact us. Follow the prompts for the problem to see the support options available for your case. Open YouTube TV support.
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Where YouTube TV sign-in is available
YouTube TV can be accessed through supported computers, smart TVs, streaming devices, and mobile devices. Supported models and requirements can change, so check the official device guidance for your specific device. For desktop viewing, the current system-requirements page lists Chrome, Firefox, and Safari; check that page for current details before troubleshooting a browser issue.
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