BBC confirms shows are heading to YouTube – here’s what to expect
BBC Group and YouTube have announced a new strategic partnership, focused on investments in new programming.
In a statement on Wednesday (21 January), the broadcaster that the group said it will be collaborating to showcase more BBC moments that bring the UK together on YouTube, and upskilling the next generation of future creators and producers from across the UK.
“Partnering with YouTube is part of the BBC’s value for all strategy, ensuring more BBC content is accessible to all audiences where they are, in addition to its hugely successful services such as BBC iPlayer and BBC Sounds, where the new programming will launch at the same time,” it said.
BBC News reports that the broadcaster will increase the number of channels it has on YouTube to 50. In the UK, the corporation will not carry advertising around its content for the streaming platform.
The new programmes will feature adverts when viewed from outside of the UK, generating extra funds for the corporation at a time when its future funding model is being debated.
The content will include a mixture of entertainment, documentaries, children’s channels, news and sport – starting with the Winter Olympics in February.
The BBC will expand its YouTube activities, focusing on four areas:
- Build targeted communities for UK children and young adults – with the launch of new targeted channels including Deepwatch (w/t), featuring new and existing BBC documentaries and seven new children’s channel including The Epic Facts channel featuring content from CBBC’s Operation Ouch, Horrible Histories, Horrible Science and Deadly 60
- Promote key BBC programme brands – especially for those people that don’t come to the BBC often to ensure they get value from the BBC
- Deliver trusted, high quality news – by providing news that cuts through the noise with new global channels, real-time live story streams and innovative story formats
- Drive commercial growth through global fandoms – through a deeper connection with fans and partnerships with brands, partners and creators
“It’s essential that everyone gets value from the BBC, and this groundbreaking partnership will help us connect with audiences in new ways,” said Tim Davie, BBC Director-General.
“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. Importantly, this partnership also allows new audiences different routes into BBC services like BBC iPlayer and Sounds.”
