Youtube Raises Premium Prices in Over 15 Countries and MacBook
YouTube Raises Premium Prices in Over 15 Countries, No Impact on MacBook Users
In a significant move affecting subscribers globally, YouTube has announced a price hike for its Premium service in more than 15 countries, spanning across Europe, South America, Asia, and the Middle East. This change does not involve any adjustments to Apple products, including MacBooks, but it will have a notable impact on YouTube users in the affected regions.
Affected Countries and Price Increases
The price increases are being reported in several countries, including Belgium, Colombia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Norway, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates. In Norway, for instance, the single-person plan has seen a 42% increase, rising from approximately $11.33 per month to just over $16.
In Sweden, the family plan has jumped from $17.57 to $27.38 per month, representing a substantial 43% increase. On average, single-person plans are increasing by 18%, while family plans are seeing a 43% hike.
Regional Pricing Details
In certain European Union countries, individual plans are increasing from €11.99 to €13.99 per month, while family plans are rising from €17.99 to €25.99. Similar adjustments are being reported in other regions, such as Colombia and Saudi Arabia, where users are also facing significant price hikes.
User Reaction and Potential Impact
Many YouTube Premium subscribers affected by these changes have expressed dissatisfaction on platforms like Reddit, with some indicating plans to cancel their subscriptions due to the substantial increases, particularly in family plans.
Introduction of YouTube Premium Lite
Alongside the price hikes, YouTube is also reintroducing a beta version of its Premium Lite plan, which was previously tested in select countries in 2021 but discontinued last year. This new tier offers limited ads on YouTube Music and Kids but lacks features such as background play and offline downloads. The Premium Lite plan is currently priced at €6 per month in the European Union and is available only to select customers as part of a beta program.
No Impact on U.S. Subscribers or MacBook Users
It is important to note that these price increases do not affect YouTube Premium subscribers in the United States, Canada, or other countries not listed. The pricing in the U.S. remains at $13.99 per month for the individual plan and $22.99 per month for the family plan.
Additionally, this price adjustment has no bearing on Apple products, including MacBooks, as it is solely related to the subscription fees for YouTube Premium services.