BBC News channel begins live YouTube streaming in UK and US

The BBC News channel is now streaming live on YouTube for viewers in the UK and US, extending the broadcaster’s online reach as audiences increasingly turn to digital platforms for news.

The trial began on Thursday. The channel carries rolling domestic and international coverage, including breaking news and programmes about politics, business, technology, culture and sport. YouTube viewers in Australia, Kenya, Nigeria and Poland already had access to the stream, the BBC said. [1]

Anjali Kapoor, the BBC’s director of AI, innovation and growth, said the launch would make live coverage easier to access and help the corporation reach audiences on platforms they use throughout the day. The BBC has framed the expansion as part of its effort to reach younger and digitally focused viewers.

The launch comes as the corporation negotiates with the government over its charter and funding after 2027. The BBC receives most of its funding from the £180-a-year television licence fee, while the number of households paying has declined in recent years. Its director general, Matt Brittin, told MPs in July that the licence-fee model was “yesterday’s model”, but did not set out a replacement. [1]

UK viewers still need a television licence to watch live television on YouTube, according to the BBC. The broadcaster says its current YouTube channels do not require viewers to prove they have paid before watching.

The BBC News service began on UK television in 1997 as BBC News 24 and took its current name in 2008. In 2023 it merged with BBC World News. The channel is also available through the BBC’s iPlayer, website and app. [1]