YouTube Premium Discontinues Grandfathered $7.99 Legacy Subscription Price Amidst Price Increase

YouTube Phases Out Grandfathered Subscription Pricing

YouTube has officially confirmed that it will be discontinuing its $7.99 grandfathered subscription rate for early adopters of YouTube Premium. This change follows a recent increase in subscription costs for existing users, marking a significant shift in the pricing structure of the platform.

Implications for Early Subscribers

For those who initially subscribed to the service, now known as YouTube Premium, this change means that they will soon see their subscription prices rise. Previously, early subscribers enjoyed reduced rates as a reward for their loyalty; however, YouTube’s decision to phase out these legacy prices marks the end of this preferential treatment.

A Historical Perspective

YouTube first launched its premium subscription, originally named “Music Key,” in 2014. This initial offering started with a promotional price of $7.99, which was later increased to $9.99 as the platform evolved and expanded its services. As of last year, the $9.99 price point was applied to these subscribers, and those still holding the original rate will soon be subject to a similar adjustment.

Today is the day, early adopters price increase by u/4w3som3 in YoutubeMusic

Recent Notifications and Phased Price Adjustments

In November, YouTube began notifying users in various European countries about this imminent price change for the Premium service. It’s important to note that any increase in the Music subscription will correspondingly affect the overall Premium plan, as these services are bundled together.

Subscribers will not see an immediate impact on their billing. They will retain their original rates for an additional three months following the announcement. After this grace period, they will be charged the same fees as all other users in their respective regions.

Official Statements and Current Pricing

Paul Pennington, YouTube’s Communications Manager, verified that the pricing adjustments will affect both YouTube Premium and YouTube Music subscriptions for both existing and new users. As Pennington stated, “Members who signed up originally via Google Play and received early adopter pricing will get three additional months at their current price,” as reported by The Verge.

The standard YouTube Premium plan currently retails for $13.99 in the United States, although the timing of any potential adjustments in pricing for U.S. subscribers remains uncertain.

Looking Ahead

This announcement comes amid a broader strategy by YouTube to standardize subscription costs for all users. Effective December 7, the increased rates will take effect, spurring concerns among users who have been accustomed to lower prices.

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