MUMBAI: Google has increased the subscription prices for YouTube Premium in India, with some plans seeing a rise of over 50%. The price hike affects the Student, Individual, and Family plans, with the new rates now visible on the YouTube website.

YouTube Premium was first introduced in India in 2019 at Rs 129 per month. After five years, the Individual plan has seen a 15.5% increase, now priced at Rs 149 per month. The Family plan, which initially cost Rs 189 per month and allowed up to five additional members, has jumped to Rs 299, marking a significant 58.2% increase. This plan now offers better value when shared among multiple members. The Student plan, which started at Rs 79 per month, has risen to Rs 89, reflecting a 12.65% hike.

Prepaid plans have also been adjusted accordingly. YouTube has reportedly begun notifying existing subscribers of the price changes via email. In the email, the company explained the need for the price adjustment, stating, "We don’t make these decisions lightly, and this update will allow us to continue improving Premium and supporting the creators and artists you watch on YouTube."

Existing users must accept the new prices to continue their subscriptions, with changes set to take effect in October. If users do not respond by their next billing date in September, their subscription will end before the new prices come into effect. YouTube Premium offers an ad-free experience, background play, offline downloads, and access to all YouTube Originals.