We knew it was only a matter of time before it happens, but now its almost set in stone.
Social video giant, YouTube are set to launch a new paid subscription service for certain channels and content. It means only one thing: users will be soon be charged to watch videos.
This news from the Financial Times, who claimed that a single-channel subscription (ie. Let¡¯s say VEVO for music lovers) around $2 a month and will include up to 50 channels.
The latest move follows the likes of Netflix, Hulu and Amazon.com, where certain entertainment will be charged. Last year alone, YouTube launched 60 new channels, including BBC Worldwide On Earth, ITN, Mixmag TV, The Jamie Oliver Food Channel, Channel 4 and Film 4, The Onion and Howcast.
These new channels were considered to be partners in joining, meaning that they have direct links to YouTube, which is now owned by Google.
When questioned about the latest news, YouTube said:
¡°We have nothing to announce at this time, but we¡¯re looking into creating a subscription platform that could bring even more great content to YouTube for our users to enjoy and provide our partners with another vehicle to generate revenue from their content, beyond the rental and ad-supported models we offer.¡±
Whether it happens or not remains to be seen, but the fact that now we might have to pay to watch latest video from Lady Gaga, isn¡¯t the greatest news in the world. Here¡¯s hoping YouTube stop this latest sham.