YouTube is raising the price of its Premium Family plan, one of the biggest price increases for the platform in years. The move follows similar price hikes by other streaming services like Netflix, Apple TV+, and Disney+.
The YouTube Premium Family plan, which allows up to six accounts to share a single subscription, will see its cost increase by £2 in the UK, from £17.99 to £19.99. In the US and Canada, the price will increase from $17.99 (CA$17.99) to $22.99 (CA$22.99), representing a 30% increase.
YouTube Premium offers users an ad-free experience, the ability to download videos, and the option to watch content while using other apps.
While the price hike is set to take effect on November 21, many customers have already expressed their dissatisfaction on social media, with some even threatening to cancel their subscriptions.
Customers were informed about the price increase via email. YouTube explained in the email that YouTube Premium was created to provide a seamless viewing experience, and the price increase is necessary to maintain and improve the service.
To address the potential backlash, YouTube has launched a feedback page specifically to collect comments and opinions on the premium price change.
On social media, disgruntled customers expressed their concerns, with some expressing disappointment at the price increase. One user said they were canceling their YouTube Premium due to the higher cost, while another mentioned they found the previous price already expensive. This latest increase is part of a broader trend in the streaming industry, with many services raising their prices this year.
Disney+ recently increased prices in the UK, with some customers now paying up to £36 more per year. Netflix also announced price increases for its UK customers, with some facing monthly fees of up to £17.99.
Despite rising prices, these streaming services continue to offer a wide range of content, but customers are increasingly considering whether the value matches the cost, especially as the streaming landscape becomes more competitive.
