YouTube, the Google-owned video-streaming giant, has rolled out its exclusive packages for Kenyan users, offering an enhanced entertainment experience with the launch of YouTube Music and YouTube Premium.

The move, announced on Wednesday, aims to elevate the entertainment experience in the region and expand the platform's reach in Africa.

YouTube Music: A Gateway to Over 100 Million Songs

With YouTube Music, Kenyan users gain access to an extensive catalogue of over 100 million official songs, live performances, music videos, remixes, podcasts, and rare music content.

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The app provides personalized recommendations, offline listening, and background play, enhancing the overall music streaming experience.

Addy Awofisayo, Head of Music, Sub-Saharan Africa at YouTube, expressed enthusiasm about bringing YouTube Music to Kenya, stating, "Music is a powerful force that can unite people beyond their geographical and language barriers; It brings joy and elevates the psyche."

The innovative features of YouTube Music include the 'Smart Search' function, allowing users to discover songs with partial lyrics, an 'Activity Bar' for quick playlist navigation, and an 'Explore Tab' showcasing the best of new and popular music.

YouTube Premium: Elevating the Viewing Experience

YouTube Premium subscribers in Kenya will enjoy an ad-free viewing experience, background play, and the ability to download videos for offline viewing.

The premium package also includes a subscription to YouTube Music Premium, offering offline and ad-free music streaming on the standalone YouTube Music app.

"In addition to YouTube Music, YouTube Premium caters to our dedicated viewers by providing an enhanced viewing environment, empowering them to watch their favourite content seamlessly," Awofisayo added.

The YouTube Premium (Individual) plan is priced at Sh419, while the YouTube Premium Family plan costs Sh669.

For a comprehensive package, the YouTube Premium Bundle is available at Sh499, and the YouTube Premium Family plan is priced at Sh949.

Expansion Across Africa

Apart from Kenya, YouTube Music and YouTube Premium were also launched in Ghana and Senegal.

The move is expected to intensify competition with other music platforms in the region, such as Spotify, Boomplay, and Apple Music.

While YouTube has not specified how the new features will benefit creators, the introduction of these premium services marks a significant milestone in the platform's commitment to providing enriched entertainment experiences to users across diverse regions.

YouTube Premium is poised to offer uninterrupted, ad-free access to all of YouTube and YouTube Music, creating a seamless and elevated digital entertainment experience for users in Kenya and beyond.