One of the last refuges of free entertainment is set to cash in. Yes, YouTube is set to launch paid subscriptions.
You Tube launched in 2005 and has become one of the most successful ventures on the Internet. Quickly recognising the future of tubing, Google, Inc. swiped up the business in 2006 for $1.76 billion (€1.34 billion).
Originally branding more amateur videos, the Internet search giant has grown to host a wide range of ‘social partner’ channels where serious You Tubers manage to make a living from the site.
With this trend has grown an ever-present advertising base, much to the annoyance of some. But with the ability to generate revenue, what corporate entity wouldn’t jump on such an enterprising band-wagon?
You Tube’s ability to track demographics (including age and gender), country-usage and hits generated per user and video has meant its bang for the buck appeal for commercial entities has wiped out the waning stats of traditional ‘tubing’.
Integrated with the world’s best-managed search-engine, the video site’s reach worldwide has become truly astonishing. With ventures into live streaming of commercial events as well as the ability to upload videos at an unlimited and uninterrupted length, You Tube has truly become a far-reaching source of expression for literally any topic you wish to make videos about.
So where do we go from here? We already know that Internet video is threatening and destroying traditional platforms. We are all watching films online and cinemas are struggling to entice audiences at traditional prices. Even more, shops are closing down as we view more and watch more online.
Given this, it seems inevitable that You Tube would axe its commercial grind even more in spreading its internet presence further. The boundaries seem unlimited and the site seems definite to capitalise on film viewing and favourite-pet-viewing alike.
You Tube will offer up to 50 channels on its paid subscription model soon and prices will be as low as $1.99 under the initiative. But will the corporations destroy our free expression? Keep watching and find out...
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