YouTube is reportedly working on a subscription service offering live streaming access to US cable TV channels.

Named Unplugged, this would be YouTubes paid subscription service, following the launch of YouTube Red last year.

According to Bloomberg, YouTube has been in talks with media companies include NBCUniversal, 21st Century Fox and CBS, but hasnt yet secured any rights.

The service could launch as soon as 2017, but YouTube is still attempting to negotiate deals so it can offer a monthly package for under $35 (£24). This will most likely take the form of a skinny bundle, comprising the four US networks and a limited selection of cable channels, but smaller bundles themed around the content, such comedy or lifestyle, may also been offered as an add-on.

Its not clear where ads fit into the service – presumably channels will come with the same commercial breaks, and the same ads, that viewers would see on TV, of which YouTube would see no cut – but there is an opportunity for YouTube to apply its ad experience to offer more targeted content.