YouTube could soon introduce a new subscription tier, as Google is reportedly preparing to relaunch YouTube Premium Lite. It was discontinued in 2023 and catered to users who just wanted ad-free video streaming and not an entire YouTube Music packaged subscription instead, and therefore it was a cheaper option compared to the total YouTube Premium bundle.
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YouTube Premium Lite 2.0 Could Launch Soon With Ad-Free Videos, But No Offline Downloads or Background Play
Now, according to Bloomberg ($/£), YouTube Premium Lite seems set to arrive in the US, Australia, Germany and Thailand shortly. In response to the news, a YouTube spokesperson said the company has been testing out a new Premium option that would remove ads on the majority of videos in some markets. Pricing information hasn’t been finalized yet, but a Threads user previously posted a screenshot that indicated a price range for the US version back in October, when YouTube first announced the testing stage of the tier.
You will no longer have to watch ads on any videos if you sign up for YouTube Premium Lite, but that seems to be the only benefit you’ll get from the subscription. The Lite plan will not come with offline downloads or background playback, features that are certainly included in full YouTube Premium, as well as full access to YouTube Music.
YouTube Premium subscribers currently had full access to YouTube Music, allowing them to stream music and music videos without ads, as well as access podcasts. But according to Bloomberg, YouTube Premium Lite is aimed at viewers who mostly watch non-music videos. Which means music videos will still have ads, while regular videos will be ad-free.
Although ads won’t be fully eliminated within the Lite tier, this plan could still entice new users, especially those who currently subscribe to another service for music streaming and have no need for the YouTube Music subscription. With multiple reports confirming its testing and potential rollout, YouTube Premium Lite could launch sooner than expected, providing an affordable way to enjoy ad-free video streaming.
FAQs
What features does YouTube Premium Lite 2.0 offer?
It provides ad-free videos but lacks offline downloads and background play.
When will YouTube Premium Lite 2.0 launch?
It is expected to launch soon in select countries, including the US and Germany.
