YouTube, the popular video streaming platform, has raised the price of its premium subscription service in several countries. This premium service allows users to enjoy an ad-free experience.
The price increase has impacted regions such as Italy, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, and more.
In certain European countries, the cost of the ‘single’ plan has risen by around two euros, while the ‘family’ plan has seen a significant jump in price.
Reports from users on Reddit suggest that YouTube notified them of the price changes through email.
In countries like Ireland, Belgium, Italy, and the Netherlands, the price of the individual plan has increased from €11.99 to €13.99.
The family plan price has also surged, rising by 40%, from €17.99 to €25.99. The subscription costs have also gone up in Denmark, Indonesia, Malaysia, Norway, Sweden, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
Price Increases Reach India
India has not been left out of these global price hikes. Last month, YouTube raised the prices of individual, family, and student premium plans in the country.
For a single user, the price has gone up from ₹129 to ₹149 per month, while the family plan, which allows up to five users, now costs ₹299 per month, up from ₹189.
The student plan has also seen an increase, going from ₹79 to ₹89 per month.
YouTube explained that these changes are aimed at improving the premium service and supporting artists and creators.
Users with premium plans enjoy features like ad-free streaming, background play for videos and music, and picture-in-picture (PiP) mode.
It is still unclear if existing subscribers will be given a grace period to adjust to the new pricing. Additionally, new users are eligible for a one-month free trial.
Last year, the Indian government issued a warning to social media platforms, including YouTube, regarding the use of deepfake technology.
Impact on India and Features of YouTube Premium
Google-owned YouTube has also increased its subscription rates in India. Many users reported receiving emails about this change via Reddit.
The individual plan now costs Rs 149 per month, up from Rs 129, while the family plan, which allows up to five users, has increased from Rs 189 to Rs 299 per month. Even student plans have seen a small hike from Rs 79 to Rs 89.
These price increases come as YouTube aims to improve its premium service and better support content creators.
Premium users benefit from ad-free viewing, background play for videos or music, and picture-in-picture (PiP) mode. New users can still access a one-month free trial before committing to the service.
While the price hike has already been implemented, it remains unclear whether existing subscribers will receive a grace period to adjust to the new rates.
