Google is reportedly preparing to launch YouTube Premium Lite, a cheaper alternative to its full subscription service, in several countries, including the US, Australia, Germany and Thailand. Bloomberg reports that the service will cater to users who want an ad-free experience for most videos but do not necessarily need access to YouTube Music.

YouTube previously tested a similar version of Premium Lite in parts of Europe in 2021, but the plan was discontinued in 2023. However, recent tests suggest that the updated version may include limited ads rather than a completely ad-free experience. Pricing remains unclear, but in Australia, a test version was listed at$8.99 AUD per month, significantly lower than the standard YouTube Premium price.

A YouTube spokesperson confirmed that the company is working on a new subscription tier with 'most videos ad-free' and hopes to expand it with support from its partners. While no official launch date has been announced, the move could provide a middle ground for users seeking fewer interruptions without committing to the full YouTube Premium package.