The YouTube logo appears on screen at the 2012 International Consumer Electronics Show at the Las Vegas Hotel & Casino on January 12, 2012. (Photo : Getty Images/ Ethan Miller)
Global video-sharing website, YouTube is in the works of launching its own internet-based subscription television plan called "Unplugged." YouTube will be introducing its new business in 2017, and will be offering a number of cable TV channels streamed over the internet.
YouTube had already set up its technical architecture, people familiar with the project told Bloomberg. The project was reportedly its biggest target in 2017. YouTube officials have discussed the plans with major media companies, including Viacom Inc., Comcast Corp.'s NBCUniversal, Twenty-First Century Fox Inc. and CBS Corp., the source added.
"Unplugged" is a premium video that will complement YouTube's web service and mobile apps. The video site giant has been planning an online TV project similar to what Apple wished to provide since 2012, the insider told the publication.
YouTube officials, including Christian Oestlien and Jonathan Zepp are reportedly working on "Unplugged." YouTube's TV subscription is not a new thing as speculations about the project have been circulating for years. However, it is the first time that details of the project have surfaced.
YouTube is aiming to feature "skinny bundle" of channels from the top U.S. networks coupled with some popular cable channels. Subscribers will be paying for $35 monthly for the TV subscription.
Meanwhile, Hulu's TV streaming service was confirmed by its CEO Mike Hopkins at an advertiser presentation at Madison Square Garden on May 4. The news about Hulu's TV plans was first reported by The Wall Street Journal.
The company will be offering live programming apart from its usual on-demand shows from the major networks. "This means our viewers will be able to enjoy live sports, news and events...in real time without a traditional cable or satellite subscription," Mr. Hopkins told the publication.
Hulu will be departing from the normal inexpensive "skinny" TV bundles that cable TV networks such as Comcast Corp. and Dish Network Corp.'s Sling TV have already provided. It said that is planning to invest more on original shows and movies exclusive to the site.
As internet-based subscription television plans are now on the rise, the Cupertino giant company may give the idea a second thought. YouTube hasn't confirmed yet about its "Unplugged" TV subscription.
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