BBC to begin producing content directly for YouTube

Of course, the BBC already uploads a ton of content onto its existing YouTube channels after it airs on the network. However, creating content for YouTube directly opens up new paths for monetization that the BBC didn’t have before; per THR, the network doesn’t feature advertisements when its programs air in the U.K. but the YouTube videos would allow the broadcaster to collect income from its licensing fees abroad. The content will still be without advertisements for users watching it in the U.K.

The BBC itself says that it plans to eventually have 50 different channels on YouTube. Currently, the main BBC YouTube channel boasts about 15 million subscribers while the BBC News channel has about 19 million. “We’re building from a strong start and this takes us to the next level, with bold homegrown content in formats audiences want on YouTube and an unprecedented training programme to upskill the next generation of YouTube creators from across the UK,” director general Tim Davie says in a press statement. The new content is expected to kick off with the Winter Olympics next month.