YouTube is developing a revamped version of its application for smart TVs that may look similar to Netflix, as stated in a report. The Alphabet-owned video streaming service will supposedly feature paid content from other providers on its home screen, making it easier for users to find them. Amazon’s Prime Video allows users to view content from third-party providers and buy a subscription within the app. YouTube already provides access to ad-free video streaming across multiple platforms, and users in the US can also pay to view TV channels on the service.
YouTube to Highlight Paid Content From Third Party Streaming Services
A report from The Information (via The Verge) suggests that YouTube is focusing on a significant overhaul of its application for smart TVs. The design of the updated app would look akin to well-known streaming platforms such as Netflix and Disney+, according to the source. It is important to mention that Alphabet’s video streaming service already enables users to subscribe to third-party streaming services through the Movies and TV section on the YouTube app for smart TVs. These Primetime Channels feature services like Max, Paramount+, and anime streaming platform Crunchyroll, but there has not been a recent addition of a new third-party service on YouTube.
Conversely, Prime Video showcases these external services (including Apple TV+) in various sections of the app, including the home screen. Users can subscribe to these services directly from the app, and YouTube is reportedly trying to mimic the same approach. Kurt Wilms, Senior Director of Product Management at YouTube, informed The Information that the app will provide a seamless experience that displays content from both YouTube creators and third-party offerings. “The vision is that when you come to our app and you’re looking for a show, it’ll just blend away whether that show is from a Primetime Channel or that show is from a creator,” he shared with the publication.
Users will reportedly notice teasers for third-party content on the home screen upon opening the YouTube app, and these will feature autoplaying previews. While the company has not yet officially confirmed plans to release a redesigned interface for its smart TV application, the report indicates that it is expected to launch in the “next few months. ”
