tech
January 16, 2026
BBC could soon make programmes for release first on YouTube under deal
Plan follows pressure on broadcaster to put more content on platform, but raises questions about licence fee
TL;DR
- BBC is under pressure to produce more content for YouTube to reach younger viewers.
- Plans could be announced soon, with some content released first on YouTube.
- The move aims to counter YouTube's growing dominance in media consumption.
- There are concerns about whether content made for YouTube will be funded by the license fee.
- The deal might also affect commercial broadcasters and global advertisers.
- YouTube has a larger reach in the UK than the BBC for short-term viewing, though the BBC leads in longer viewing sessions.
- Some within the BBC are wary of the deal, concerned about viewer recognition and the dominance of US tech companies.
- Patricia Hidalgo supports putting children's programming on YouTube but notes concerns about US-based content diverting UK children.
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