Google is ending its long-standing $7.99 YouTube Music Premium subscription for traditional users, especially affecting early adopters in Europe and South America. Starting in March 2025, the monthly fee for these original subscribers will increase to 10.99 euros (about $11.76). This ends nearly a decade of discounted access that was first offered in 2014 with YouTube’s own Music Key service.
History of YouTube Music Legacy subscribers
YouTube Music Premium includes ad-free streaming, background playback, and offline downloads. It evolved from Music Key, which originally offered ad-free music and video streaming for a small monthly fee. YouTube has adjusted subscription prices for new users over the years. However, existing Music Key subscribers were able to keep their original prices. Android Police states that YouTube has begun notifying existing subscribers in the affected regions, signaling the end of this outdated pricing structure.
The price increases are not limited to individual fares. In parts of Europe, family fares will increase substantially from 12.99 euros ($13.90) to 20.99 euros ($22.46). In Costa Rica, family fares will increase from about $11 to $16, an increase of about 47%. Individual fares for students, which have been spared from the price increases so far, are also expected to be adjusted this time.
To ease the transition, YouTube is offering existing subscribers a three-month grace period before the new 10.99 euro price applies. US subscribers still using Music Key’s initial pricing may see a similar change as YouTube works to harmonize pricing globally.
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Alongside the price increase, YouTube reintroduced its cheaper Premium Lite package. Available in some territories, such as Australia, Germany, and Thailand, Premium Lite offers ad-free TV on YouTube but with limited ads for music videos and shorts. However, it lacks features such as background playback and offline downloads, making it cheaper but less feature-rich.
This price adjustment reflects a broader trend among streaming services, with Disney Plus, Hulu, and others recently announcing price increases. YouTube’s move highlights a changing landscape as streaming giants continue to raise prices, forcing subscribers to rethink their monthly budgets and consider cheaper alternative options.
