YouTube has launched a pilot program where it will offer 53 paid subscription channels starting at just 99 cents per month.
YouTube’s owners Google said the move was part of a plan to ensure that content creators could “earn revenue for their creativity.”
Each channel will offer a free 14-day trial while many will have discounted annual rates and subscribers can pay using their credit cards or through the Google Wallet service.
YouTube said in a blog post: “Today, there are more than 1 million channels generating revenue on YouTube, and one of the most frequent requests we hear from these creators behind them is for more flexibility in monetizing and distributing content.
“Starting today, we’re launching a pilot program for a small group of partners that will offer paid channels on YouTube with subscription fees starting at $0.99 per month. Every channel has a 14-day free trial, and many offer discounted yearly rates.
“Once you subscribe from a computer, you’ll be able to watch paid channels on your computer, phone, tablet and TV, and soon you’ll be able to subscribe to them from more devices.”
YouTube promised to roll out more paid channels in the coming weeks and said the service would develop based on the feedback from content creators and channel viewers.
The initial paid channel line up include National Geographic Kids, Acorn – which provides episodes from several British TV series -and Fix My Hog Premium, which is aimed at Harley Davidson motorcycle enthusiasts.
For the full list of the paid channels – click here