Google rumored to be launching paid YouTube channels soon

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Well, we didn't think the day would come. But rumors have arised which state that Google are beginning to work with a small number of popular YouTube video channel operators on a pilot program which could result in paid subscriptions as early as this spring.

According to reports, Google plans to team up with YouTube partners like Machinima, Maker Studios and Fullscreen to offer up paid subscription tiers, as well as bringing in new content brands.

Google began offering YouTube feature videos which you could rent in 2010, but allowing channels to charge money to access their content could turn YouTube into a online alternative to a cable TV network, if enough people actually sign up for them.

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"Google rumored to be launching paid YouTube channels soon" :: Login/Create an Account :: 81 comments

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TickldPosted:

This is basically like selling yourself out many YouTuber's that are big get accused of only being in it for the money, they take no joy out of doing it. This would be like a big middle finger to all of their fans and basically admitting that they love their wallets more than the subscribers that made them big. First it will be individual channels that opt in on the scheme... then it may become all of YouTube! If this happens people will boycott YouTube, it isn't the only large video website on the internet. I would personally not use YouTube if it became a "pay to use" service. The ads are already bad enough. If a lot of people felt this it could be a very bad decision for YouTube!

Activez-Posted:

Honestly how well does Google think this will do youtube? If I was gonna pay for a subscription to a show(s) it would be something like HBO or Starz.

DLTPosted:

This would be good for people who have videos with a high production value. Not regular YouTubers.

AR15Posted:

This opens up so many possibilitys to actual companies or partnered YouTube channels.

CausesPosted:

Well if you're partnered with youtube, you can use all of youtubes material right?

ArmoredHazmatPosted:

_Skrillex- stupid idea.


Small mind here^

Are you serious, this is the future of tv! I cant want till alot of networks are on board for this! We can watch all of my favourite shows eventually and hopefully pay very little. Im hoping networks like mtv, spike notice this because then you can stream tv on youtube (dont get me wrong i know people have sites that do this but youtube is user friendly and likes the community so hopfully they dont mess this up!)

kip4hoursPosted:

wow that would really suck come on the people who have all the 50k subs are already getting loads off money this would just make them into greedy *****

ZyphrPosted:

Well, we will have to see how it works out.

_Skrillex-Posted:

stupid idea.

mods-360Posted:

I don't want you tube to become a alternative to TV where you have to pay to watch some content, I thought youtube was to connect people and not have to pay seems pointless to me but its just my opinion.