Partnership Details
The BBC announced a new agreement with YouTube, a platform owned by Google. The agreement involves the BBC creating content specifically for YouTube's digital-native younger audience. This content may also be accessible on the BBC's iPlayer and Sounds platforms. Programs viewed outside the UK will include advertisements, which are expected to generate additional revenue for the BBC.
Content and Reach
The content slate will encompass entertainment, news, and sport, with initial programming related to the Winter Olympics in February. Both YouTube and the BBC stated the deal aims to feature "homegrown storytelling and news from across the BBC." BBC Director General Tim Davie commented that the partnership is intended to help the BBC engage with audiences in new ways, provide content on YouTube, and offer an extensive training program for UK creators. The BBC's main YouTube channel has over 15 million subscribers, and its BBC News channel has approximately 19 million subscribers. The BBC plans to increase its number of YouTube channels to 50. Content for UK viewers on the streaming platform will not feature advertising.
Creative Industries Investment
The partnership also supports the UK government's Creative Industries Sector Plan. This includes an investment in developing future creators across the country. The National Film and Television School will lead workshops and events to train 150 media professionals in YouTube content creation. Pedro Pina, YouTube's Vice President of EMEA, stated the collaboration aims to expand digital storytelling and reach a younger, global audience, while also investing in the UK's creative talent.