YouTube Launches Premium Video Service and Expands Music Streaming Offering to More Countries

On Monday (June 18), YouTube announced the launch of YouTube Premium (formerly known as YouTube Red), as well as the expansion of YouTube Music to include 12 more countries. The service is now officially available to everyone in the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico and South Korea, and is being rolled out in Austria, Canada, Finland  France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Russia, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.

Released in late May, the YouTube Music streaming services offers a free platform, as well as an ad-free platform for subscribers. Both include features like recommendations, playlists and smart search. Those that subscribe for $9.99/month are also able to download music.

YouTube Premium users will have access to all of the features of YouTube Music, in addition to original YouTube video content -- includings shows and movies like Cobra Kai, Impulse and F2 Finding Football. Premium is available for $11.99/month, or for $17.99/month for a family plan.

Anyone who subscribes to Google Play Music will also automatically receive access to YouTube Music Premium.