YouTube Premium Lite Returns with Limited Ads in 2023

YouTube's Premium Lite: A New Subscription Model in Testing

Last year, YouTube made headlines by discontinuing its Premium Lite subscription service, a budget-friendly alternative to the mainstream YouTube Premium. However, recent developments indicate that YouTube is back at it again, experimenting with a new version of Premium Lite. Confirmed by YouTube to Android Authority, this service is currently being tested in select markets including Australia, Germany, and Thailand.

What's New in YouTube Premium Lite?

Jessica Gibby, a spokesperson for YouTube, specified that the tests of this "different version" have been ongoing for some months, with the latest trials starting in Australia at the beginning of this year. Despite the testing phase, Gibby noted that there is no information available regarding a broader rollout of the service.

Pricing Structure

The Premium Lite subscription is significantly more affordable than its counterpart. A snapshot shared on social media by singer-songwriter Jonah Manzano revealed that the cost for Premium Lite in Australia is:

• Web: $8.99 AUD per month
• iOS: $11.99 AUD per month

This is nearly half the price of the full Premium subscription, which retails at $16.99 AUD on the web and $22.99 AUD on iOS.

Ad Experience Comparison

While the previous iteration of Premium Lite boasted an ad-free experience on YouTube and YouTube Kids, users of the new version will encounter a different reality. According to YouTube, this updated subscription will include limited ads. Notably, ads may be present on:

• Music content
• YouTube Shorts

Additionally, users may see "non-interruptive ads" when browsing or searching.

Features and Limitations

As per the information available from the screenshot, the new Premium Lite subscription does not provide several features that were previously available, nor does it include the ad-free access to YouTube Music. Key limitations include:

• No ad-free access to YouTube Music
• No ability to download and play videos offline
• No ability to listen to videos in the background

This aligns with the offerings of the earlier Premium Lite version, indicating that YouTube is keen to maintain a distinction between the full Premium experience and its lower-cost variant.

A Brief History of YouTube Premium Lite

YouTube initially piloted the Premium Lite subscription in regions across Europe back in 2021. The service aimed to cater to users looking for a more cost-effective solution without completely removing ads from their viewing experience.

Conclusion

As YouTube continues to refine its subscription offerings, the ongoing tests of the Premium Lite model could signify a noteworthy shift in how users engage with content on the platform. While the current version still presents limitations in terms of features, many users may find value in the reduced price point. Keep an eye on developments to see how YouTube evolves this service.