YouTube is turning its Indian creators into digital shopkeepers with the launch of YouTube Shopping, bringing a new meaning to the phrase “like and subscribe.” The platform’s latest monetization feature, already a hit in South Korea and the US, allows creators to transform their videos into virtual storefronts.
YouTube to star – ‘YouTube Shopping’ in India
The program, which went live on Friday, lets eligible creators tag products from major e-commerce giants Flipkart and Myntra in their content – be it traditional videos, bite-sized Shorts, or livestreams. Viewers can browse these products without leaving their entertainment bubble, making impulse shopping even more tempting across web, mobile, and connected TV platforms.
But there’s a catch – not every content creator gets to join this digital bazaar. YouTube has set some ground rules: channels must be part of the YouTube Partner Program, call India home, and boast more than 10,000 subscribers. Sorry, kids’ channels and music channels – this shopping spree isn’t for you.
What benefits will be given to YouTube creators?
The reward for qualifying creators? A commission on their viewers’ entire purchase when they shop through tagged links. Creators can play digital visual merchandiser with up to 30 product tags per video, with commission rates displayed during the tagging process.
However, YouTube’s keeping things clean – channels with Community Guideline Strikes in sensitive areas won’t get an invitation to this shopping party. Videos with claimed content will also stay tag-free.
How to turn YouTube channel into a shopping destination?
Ready to turn your channel into a shopping destination? The sign-up process is straightforward:
- Log in to YouTube Studio
- Click on ‘Earn’ in the left menu
- Head to ‘Programs’ > ‘Join Now’
- Accept the terms of service
This move marks YouTube’s latest effort to transform from a mere video platform into a comprehensive entertainment and shopping destination, potentially revolutionizing how Indians shop online. With this launch, the line between content creation and e-commerce just got a lot blurrier – and potentially a lot more profitable for creators.
