YouTube Introduces Learning PlayLists and New Channels Monetization

YouTube is introducing new ways for channel managers to make money. For example, the existing paid subscriptions of channels will have different tiers with different prices. Learning Playlists are lists where distractions are omitted.

Learning Playlists are playlists divided into chapters, which can contain multiple videos. The playlists have their own pages on which the learning objectives can be found next to the videos. Also, featured videos on the page are disabled so as not to distract from the playlist content. YouTube links to two examples: one about chemistry and one about Javascript.

It is already possible to join certain channels, which brings benefits such as exclusive badges, emojis, posts, videos and live streams. With the introduction of different tiers of membership, channel admins will have the ability to control how many tiers there are, what they cost, and what extras they include. There are up to five levels. The function is already being tested on the React channel. Prices vary from 4.99 euros per month to 24.99 euros per month. YouTube does not state in the announcement how much money it puts in its pocket.

There are also Super Stickers, an extension of Super Chat. These chat messages cost money, but in return they are extra noticeable and remain stickied in the chat log of a live stream or premiere for a while. As the name suggests, Super Stickers is about stickers rather than text messages.

YouTube Giving is also exiting its beta phase. This feature allows users to designate a non-profit they want to raise money for. This is then displayed including a counter next to their videos and streams and users can donate a sum of money without leaving YouTube.

Finally, several merchandise producers are added to the so-called merch shelf, which display a selection of promotional goods. Channels that work with any of these producers can display their merchandise under their video.