YouTube Premium, the subscription service offered by YouTube, has recently raised its price to $13.99 a month in the US. This is a $2 increase compared to its previous cost. The updated pricing was quietly reflected on Google’s signup page for the service, and it was first noticed by 9to5Google.
In addition to the monthly price increase, the cost of an annual subscription to YouTube Premium has also gone up by $20, now costing $139.99. It remains uncertain whether this price increase will also apply to existing subscribers, or if it will only affect new subscribers.
When Google rebranded its ad-free YouTube service from “YouTube Red” to “YouTube Premium” in 2018, it permitted former YouTube Red subscribers to continue paying the old price of $9.99 per month. According to Abner Li, a writer for 9to5Google, YouTube is still honoring this lower price on his personal account, even five years after the rebrand.
However, in a more recent price increase for its Premium family plan last October, YouTube did not offer the same courtesy to existing subscribers. Those who were already subscribed to the plan were charged the higher price starting from the following month. It remains to be seen how YouTube will handle this week’s price increases for existing subscribers, and whether the price changes will apply internationally.
YouTube Premium offers a range of functionality improvements for its subscribers. One of the main benefits is the ability to watch YouTube videos without any ads. Subscribers can also download videos to watch offline, making it convenient for users who want to watch content without an internet connection. Another feature is background playback, which allows users to listen to a video’s audio while using other apps or when their phone’s screen is turned off.
Recently, Google introduced a higher-quality 1080p streaming option for select platforms as part of YouTube Premium. This is a valuable addition for users who prioritize video quality. Additionally, subscribing to YouTube Premium eliminates Google’s incessant nagging with ads, pop-ups, and spam, providing a more seamless and uninterrupted viewing experience.
Overall, the recent price increase for YouTube Premium is an adjustment for users who enjoy the benefits of an ad-free and enhanced YouTube experience. It remains to be seen how the change will be received by existing subscribers and if they will have the option to continue paying the previous price. Nevertheless, YouTube Premium continues to offer a range of features and improvements that enhance the overall video streaming experience for its subscribers.
