YouTube hints at paid-for video on subscription platform

Image caption, YouTube claims to have one billion unique users to the site each month
  • Author, Jonathan Blake
  • Role, Newsbeat Technology Reporter

YouTube has confirmed it is looking into creating a new "subscription platform" as reports suggest the site is set to start charging users to watch some videos.

The plan could see content providers such as TV companies making videos available for a monthly fee.

YouTube executives have hinted at a plan to launch paid channels.

A spokesperson said YouTube is looking to "provide our creators with another vehicle to generate revenue".

YouTube allows users in the UK to rent major film titles but US users have been able to buy and rent films and TV episodes since 2008.

It is reported that users could pay as little as $1.99 (拢1.28) per month to access videos from certain providers.

YouTube insists the new charging model will benefit those using the site to watch videos, not merely those publishing content.

A spokesperson said the company had nothing to announce at this time but added: "We're looking into creating a subscription platform that could bring even more great content to YouTube for our users to enjoy..."

They added the new model would "provide our creators with another vehicle to generate revenue from their content, beyond the rental and ad-supported models we offer".

In March, YouTube vice president Robert Kyncl told reporters: "It's a whole new skill set to develop, to convince people to actually take out their credit card."

YouTube, which is owned by Google, claims it has more than one billion unique users each month.

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