Google is making changes to the way users purchase video content such as movies and TV shows. Going forward, no matter if you’re using Android TV, Google TV or the Google TV mobile application, all purchases will be made through YouTube instead of dedicated content stores on those platforms.
The company stressed that the change doesn’t affect any videos or shows people have already bought, which will remain accessible. But any movies someone pays for via YouTube will not be accessible via the Google Play Family Library, meaning they’ll have two different places to store their content in.
In a blog post, Google explained that buying directly through YouTube isn’t much different from purchasing content via the Google TV store. Users have to sign into their Google account, and then they can explore the YouTube app to find the content they want. They can also browse the Movies & Shows page on YouTube, which is a kind of store in itself. Users must be 18 or older and have a valid payment method linked to their account, and once set up, they can buy or rent any title they wish, instantly, with a single click.
Google said the changes are coming into effect immediately for some users, while others may have to wait a couple of weeks before they notice anything different. One potential issue users may have is that YouTube’s content offerings differ from country to country, and it doesn’t support rentals or payments in every one. Google said the list of supported countries can be found on its support site.
The changes are in line with Google’s ongoing effort to consolidate all of its video content in one place. It has already shut down the movies and TV section within Google Play, shifting everything into YouTube. It makes sense, because having multiple stores can be confusing. The company wants to provide a consistent experience across all of its platforms.
