Google has struck a deal with Pluto TV to expand its live TV tab with 300 free, ad-supported channels. More free options will follow in 2022, the company said.

Google TV live channels
Google says that its research shows that 67% of streamers are concerned about how much they will pay for streaming in the future. The company is now giving users an easer way to watch free content with ads.

- "Starting today, we’re partnering with Pluto TV so you can access more than 300 free live TV channels on Google TV. Visit the Live tab to see what’s on now or check out the Free Live TV recommendations in the For You tab. This new integration with Pluto TV will be available on all Google TV devices in the coming weeks," announced Google.


 Pluto TV's free ad-supported channels can now be found on the Google TV Live tab

Pluto TV was already available on Android TV and Google TV as a separate app, but it is now being integrated as part of the 'Live TV' tab that you see at the top of the Google TV user interface. Other services such as Philo, Sling and YouTube TV also have Live TV integration with Google TV.

Google TV is a layer on top of Android TV, which is currently found in 2021 Sony TVs and some TCL TVs as well as the latest Chromecast.

Amazon, LG, Roku, Samsung and others have launched similar initiatives where free channels are available with ads – a sort of cable TV 2.0 that you don't have to pay for directly. It is part of a larger trend to transform Smart TVs into ad-driven platforms that generate recurring revenue for the platform holders.

Google said that new users in the US can also enjoy six months of Peacock Premium at no cost ($5 per month after the trial). The offer can be redeemed from the For You or Apps tabs on the TV.

- "And in 2022, we’ll be bringing you more ways to watch for free," said Google