BBC News Launches on YouTube in the UK
BBC News is now available to watch live on YouTube in the UK as well as through the BBC’s existing services. The stream launched on 15th October 2026 as part of a trial in the UK and US. Here’s how to find it, what you need to know, and how it compares with other ways to watch BBC News.
What launched: A live stream of the BBC News channel on YouTube.
How to watch: Visit the verified BBC News channel on YouTube and look for its live stream.
What has the BBC launched?
The BBC News channel is now available as a 24-hour live stream on YouTube in the UK and US. It carries live news coverage, including domestic and international stories, politics, business, technology, culture and breaking events. The launch expands the ways people can access the channel; it does not replace the BBC’s existing services.
The UK and US launch is described as a trial. The channel had already become available on YouTube in Australia, Kenya, Nigeria and Poland. The BBC says the move is part of its wider strategy to reach digitally minded and younger audiences by making live news available on platforms they already use. It also reflects growing competition for viewers’ attention as audiences move between traditional television, streaming services and social platforms.
BBC News on YouTube UK: how to watch the live stream
Does it cost anything, and do you need a YouTube account?
Is BBC News on YouTube free? You do not normally need a YouTube Premium subscription to watch live streams on YouTube. Adverts may appear, but you do not need to pay for YouTube Premium just to watch the BBC News stream.
Can you watch without signing in? You can usually browse YouTube without signing in. However, some devices or features may ask you to sign in. Try opening the verified BBC News channel in your browser first, and follow any instructions shown on your device.
Can you watch it on a phone, computer or smart TV?
You can watch YouTube through a web browser or the YouTube app on many phones, tablets, computers and smart TVs. The steps vary depending on your device and whether it supports the YouTube app.
On a compatible smart TV or streaming device, open the YouTube app, search for BBC News, select the verified BBC News channel and look for the live broadcast. Select it if it is available. On a phone or tablet, use the YouTube app or open the channel in a browser. If you cannot see the live stream, check that you have the right channel and that the broadcast is available in your location. Not every television supports the YouTube app.
How is it different from BBC iPlayer and the BBC News app?
YouTube is another place to watch the BBC News channel live. BBC iPlayer and the BBC News app remain available too, so you can keep using whichever service suits you best.
If you already use BBC iPlayer or the BBC News app, you do not need to switch. YouTube may simply be more convenient if you already watch live video there or use its app on your television.
Do You Need a TV Licence to Watch BBC News on YouTube?
A TV Licence is also needed to watch programmes on BBC iPlayer, including on-demand programmes. Not every YouTube video requires a licence, so check TV Licensing’s official guidance for the full rules. You can also read our guide to the TV Licence fee increase due in April 2027.
What UK viewers should know
The main change is that you can now watch BBC News live on YouTube in the UK as part of a trial. You can still watch through the BBC’s existing services. To try YouTube, visit the verified BBC News channel and select the live stream if it is available.
As this is a trial, the stream’s availability may change. If you cannot find it, check the official BBC News channel for the latest information.
TV Licence fee: what you need to know
The TV Licence fee is due to change in April 2027. Read our separate guide for the latest fee details and what the increase could mean for your household.
BBC News on YouTube UK: Frequently Asked Questions
Is BBC News on YouTube free? You do not normally need YouTube Premium to watch the live stream, although adverts may appear.
Can I watch BBC News on YouTube without signing in? You can generally browse YouTube without signing in, though the stream or your device may prompt you to do so.
Do I need a TV Licence to watch BBC News live on YouTube? Yes. In the UK, a TV Licence is required to watch live TV on YouTube, including the BBC News live stream. The BBC reports that viewers do not currently have to prove they hold a licence before accessing its YouTube stream, which may make enforcement harder. That does not remove the legal requirement. Check TV Licensing for the full rules.
This article is general information. Availability may change during the trial, so check the official BBC and YouTube pages for the latest details.
