YouTube unveils streamer aggregation service Primetime Channels

In its latest encroachment into the TV sector, YouTube has unveiled a new service called Primetime Channels, which allows users to browse and watch content from streaming services such as Showtime, Starz, Paramount+, AMC+ and ViX+.

Erin Teague

Launching initially in the US, users will be able to sign up for Primetime Channels in Movies & TV hub. Here they will find around 30 channels that they can buy directly through YouTube, with more streaming services such as NBA League Pass coming soon.

After sign up, YouTube says “content from your Primetime Channels will be reflected into the YouTube experience. For fans who like to go deeper into what they’re watching, Primetime Channels home pages will feature shows and movies with curated trailers, behind-the-scenes footage and cast interviews. When searching for content from purchases, you’ll be able to quickly identify and access them in the search results, alongside videos from your favourite creators. And YouTube recommendations will also include programmes from Primetime Channels.”

Another way to stream

Erin Teague, director of product management, YouTube, said: “Primetime Channels adds even more content that you just can’t miss to our collection of thousands of movies and shows available for rent or purchase, or for free with ads.”

Jeff Shultz, chief strategy officer and business development officer, Paramount Streaming, added: “We are excited to expand our partnership with YouTube to offer customers of Paramount+ another way to stream the content they love. This new feature gives us the opportunity to expand our presence on YouTube, broadening our reach and giving consumers even more choice when it comes to streaming.”

Going forward with the aggregation strategy, Teague said: “We’ll continue working with our partners to bring more content options to Primetime Channels, build new features that only YouTube can deliver, and expand to our international users.”