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YouTube, known primarily as a user-generated content platform, has been expanding into the streaming arena over the years by offering both free and paid on-demand movies and original programming. Their recent initiative aims to position themselves as competitors to emerging streaming services like Tubi and Pluto.
This week, YouTube announced a new feature that allows users to stream up to 4,000 episodes of classic TV shows for free. These episodes can be accessed on the regular YouTube website or through YouTube’s mobile and streaming player apps. The content is supported by ads and includes a variety of shows such as Hell’s Kitchen, Andromeda, and Heartland, with plans to add at least 100 new shows weekly in the coming months. This service complements YouTube’s existing collection of free ad-supported movies, which will also see regular additions.
YouTube Enters “Free TV” Streaming Wars, Adds Access To Nearly 4,000 Free Classic TV Episodes https://t.co/0iWj51TLL3 pic.twitter.com/0QmxuHs8Co
— Forbes Tech (@ForbesTech) March 25, 2022
While platforms like Tubi and Pluto also offer vintage TV content for free, YouTube’s integration of this service into its existing platform could make it a more attractive option for users. Although YouTube has not confirmed this, analysts speculate that this move is aimed at countering Roku, with whom Google has had some recent disagreements.
