YouTube Plans Cheaper Ad-Supported Subscription with Premium Lite

YouTube is reportedly gearing up to launch a more affordable version of its ad-free Premium subscription. This new plan, expected to be called YouTube Premium Lite, will offer users access to content with advertisements, but at a lower price than the current Premium plan. After months of testing, the new offering could be available soon in select countries, with a potential rollout in Australia, Germany, Thailand, and the United States.

What to Expect from YouTube Premium Lite?

The main draw of YouTube Premium Lite will be its lower price. Although the exact cost hasn’t been confirmed, reports suggest it could be priced below $13.99 per month—the current cost of YouTube Premium in the US. This would make it an attractive option for users who want some of the benefits of YouTube Premium without paying the full price.

However, there’s a catch. YouTube Premium Lite subscribers will still see ads when watching music videos. So, while other content might be ad-free, music videos will include advertisements. If you’re someone who mostly watches tutorials, guides, or other non-music content, this could be a great budget-friendly option. But, for those who enjoy uninterrupted music videos, the standard YouTube Premium subscription will remain the go-to choice.

YouTube’s Push for More Flexibility

This move by YouTube signals the company’s commitment to providing more choices and flexibility for users. As one spokesperson put it, “We’ve been testing a new YouTube Premium offering with most videos ad-free in several of our markets.” YouTube’s aim is to cater to users who want a middle-ground option between the fully ad-free experience of YouTube Premium and the free version of YouTube that comes with ads.

Availability and Pricing in India

Currently, YouTube Premium is priced at Rs. 149 per month in India, with a student plan available at Rs. 99. The Premium Family plan costs Rs. 299, while YouTube Music Premium is available for Rs. 119 per month. It’s not yet clear when or if YouTube Premium Lite will make its way to India, but this new, lower-cost option could open doors for more users who want some ad-free content without the higher price tag.

Will YouTube Premium Lite Be Right for You?

This new tier could be perfect for users who want to enjoy ad-free videos on most types of content but don’t mind ads when it comes to music videos. If you’re someone who frequently watches educational content or non-music videos, this might be a worthwhile option. However, if you’re dedicated to enjoying music videos without interruptions, YouTube Premium might still be the better choice.

In the coming months, we can expect more clarity on the exact pricing and availability of YouTube Premium Lite in different regions. For now, YouTube continues to innovate and adjust to the preferences of its diverse user base. Stay tuned for further updates on when this new plan will officially launch.