With its upcoming ad-supported TV channels, YouTube is looking to become a major player in the streaming industry. This move would put them in direct competition with other streaming services like Roku and Plex and traditional cable providers. The feature is currently being tested by a select group of viewers in the US, though there could be an eventual wider rollout this year if it’s successful.
The new channels would be collected together on one central hub that allows viewers to choose what they’d like to watch, with various content partners signed up along the way. YouTube will take 45% of ad revenue from these channels, which is consistent with their policy for advertising on individual videos made by content creators. This goes beyond their existing streaming service ‘YouTube TV,’ which requires users to pay a monthly fee for access. People can also permanently buy movies and tv shows through the platform if they wish.
YouTube has been experimenting with television programs for some time now; anything bought through the Google TV interface can already be accessed via Youtube. Last year, another selection of ad-supported programs was also added. These changes are largely due to rivals such as Netflix providing cheaper options that come with commercials included and Disney Plus doing something similar this March, too – giving customers more choice than ever before when it comes to watching their favorite shows or live TV events either free or at a reduced cost.
As one of the most popular websites in existence today, YouTube has already gained millions of loyal followers worldwide who use it both professionally and recreationally - but its aim now appears clear; gain even more viewership from those searching for alternative ways they can watch television without breaking the bank each month! With an array of new features constantly being implemented alongside old ones improved upon regularly (such as ‘Youtube Shorts’), then now might be time right time you give Youtube's increasing library your attention - who knows what else lies around this corner?!