YouTube is planning a significant price increase for its Premium subscription in numerous countries. The subscription offers ad-free videos, offline playback and YouTube Music. The adjustment is being made in view of rising costs for content and infrastructure.
The most important facts in brief:
- Prices are rising noticeably in many countries, including the USA and Europe.
- Existing subscribers are not immediately affected by the increase.
- Monthly costs will increase by up to 5 US dollars.
Price increase and affected regions
It will be significantly more expensive in Switzerland, for example. Here you no longer pay CHF 24 per month for the family subscription, but have to pay significantly more at CHF 34. Other countries such as Denmark, Sweden and Colombia are also affected. Here, too, prices have risen by more than 50 percent. Some users of a corresponding Reddit forum have already listed the detailed figures.
Meanwhile, there does not appear to be an increase in Germany. However, as prices in this country were only raised just under a year ago, it will probably be a while before the next increase. Nevertheless, subscribers and those who want to become subscribers will probably have to be prepared for an increase in Germany as well.
In combination with the increased advertising on the video platform, this is likely to annoy many users. Google justifies the decision with increased costs for content and the provision of the service. In particular, the quality and quantity of content on YouTube has increased considerably in recent years, which has made it necessary to expand the infrastructure. These changes are now reflected in the subscription costs.
Impact on existing subscribers
Existing subscribers will continue to pay the old price for the time being. It is expected that they will be switched to the new rate within three months of the price increase coming into effect. Google promises to inform subscribers in good time by email so that they have enough time to think about canceling.
The price increase will come into force in most countries in October 2023. Users who are already using the subscription should therefore be prepared to be notified soon. Users who are still considering whether they want to subscribe to YouTube Premium should also keep an eye on the new prices.
Conclusion
YouTube Premium will become more expensive for many users worldwide, which could affect the attractiveness of the subscription. Subscribers will have to dig deeper into their pockets for ad-free streaming, offline playback and YouTube Music. Nevertheless, it remains to be seen how users will react to this adjustment and whether they are willing to pay the higher price.
