The public broadcaster, BBC, is taking its first steps toward producing bespoke content specifically for YouTube.
Under the expected partnership between the two, the content will also be made available on iPlayer and BBC Sounds. The move follows YouTube’s rise to become one of the most-watched platforms in the UK.
The broadcaster’s presence on YouTube is viewed as a key tool for increasing engagement with younger audiences. BBC Children’s has already begun uploading full episodes from Children’s and CBeebies titles to YouTube to drive viewers toward iPlayer.
The broadcaster’s management has previously indicated that this strategy could be extended beyond children to include broader age groups.
The YouTube-original shows are expected to be youth-focused and similar in tone and format to BBC Three content.
As an ad-free public broadcaster, the channel will not generate direct advertising revenue from YouTube in the UK, though it could benefit from advertising income internationally.
Some company insiders have raised concerns that a stronger YouTube presence could undermine the licence fee funding model. However, many industry figures argue that the broadcaster should embrace YouTube more boldly to remain competitive and relevant.
