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YouTube has upgraded its Premium Lite subscription by adding background play and offline downloads, enhancing value for budget-conscious users. Most videos will be available ad-free under the Lite plan. Music content, including YouTube Music Premium, will still require the full YouTube Premium subscription.
YouTube has announced that it would add background play and offline downloads to its Premium Lite subscription. The update is based on user feedback and aims to make the lower-cost tier more practical for everyday viewing. With this change, Premium Lite subscribers will be able to watch most videos ad-free, offline, and in the background, narrowing the gap between Lite and the full YouTube Premium plan.
Background play support is enabled for Premium Lite subscribers. This allows videos to continue playing when the app is minimized or when the screen is locked. For many users, like those who listen to podcasts, interviews, or long-form discussions on YouTube, background playback is essential.
Offline downloads let users save videos to view without an internet connection. This is an important feature for listeners in regions with patchy connectivity or high mobile data costs, such as people who watch content while commuting on the underground metro.
The rollout begins today (25 February 2026) and will expand over the coming weeks in all markets where Premium Lite is currently offered.
YouTube Premium Lite costs US$7.99 per month in the US. The less expensive plan is currently available in over 20 markets, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Mexico, India, South Korea, France, Germany, the UK, Italy, and Spain.
At US$13.99/month, YouTube Premium offers an ad-free experience across all videos, YouTube Music Premium, and additional features such as enhanced 1080p video quality.
Also Read: YouTube Music Premium: Best Things to Know
“Last year, we expanded our Premium Lite pilot to more markets and heard feedback about wanting these additional features included in the service. We’re excited for today’s update and to continue testing and building products that best meet our users’ needs,” the YouTube team said today.
YouTube makes Premium Lite a more viable alternative for users who do not need ad-free music streaming. With these upgrades, YouTube could attract more subscribers and improve retention and conversion in price-sensitive regions.
