Kids’ version of YouTube to launched in India

‘YouTube Kids’ is a library of learning content for children.

YouTube on Wednesday launched ‘YouTube Kids’ – a kids-centric version of the main online video streaming platform that consists of a library of learning content. The mobile app is available to download from the Google Play Store.

‘YouTube Kids comes to India at a great time for millions of Indian families, as it provides children access to content that will enrich their lives and create new opportunities for learning,’ Malik Ducard, YouTube’s Global Head of Family and Learning, said in a statement.

‘India already has a very diverse and rapidly-growing creator base for kids and learning, with content in this category growing 100 per cent year over year,’ he added.

The app comes in a playful design, large images and bold icons. It is a kid-friendly app that is aimed to make it easier for the children to find and navigate through videos like ‘Little Krishna’ and ‘ChuChuTV’ among others.

The app also comes with a voice search option that lets children find videos that they cannot type or spell a word of.

‘Indian creators are exporting large amount of content as well. There is a uniformity in the consumption as a lot of content created in India is watched outside and a lot of content created outside in consumed in India,’ Aman Dayal, Content Partnership Manager YouTube Kids and Learning, India and South East Asia told IANS.

Several Indian creators will be adding new shows exclusive to the YouTube platform. These include popular shows such as ‘Cat and Keet’ and ‘Appu – The Yogic Elephant.’

The service also offers parental control option wherein parents can restrict certain content and their kids’ screen time by simply setting a built-in timer.