Under the pilot programme, a small number of content makers will offer the channels for subscriptions starting at $0.99 (£0.64) a month. Each channel will offer a free 14-day trial and many will have discounted annual rates. Although the initial 53-channel line-up is fairly niche, one expert suggested the move might ultimately squeeze some smaller rivals out of the market. YouTube, which is owned by Google, said the launch was part of an effort to enable "content creators to earn revenue for their creativity". For example, the children's television favourite, Sesame Street will offer full episodes on its pay channel when it launches. Subscribers can pay using either their credit cards or through Google's own Wallet service. The paid channels involved in the pilot are diverse. They include National Geographic Kids, Acorn - which provides episodes from several British TV series -and Fix My Hog Premium, which is aimed at Harley Davidson motorcycle enthusiasts.
bbc