YouTube could take on Netflix in the television and film streaming market as the video website discusses rights with studios.
The Alphabet unit is looking into purchasing original and licensed programming, according to sources.
Susanne Daniels, former programming chief of MTV and Kelly Merryman, formerly of Netflix, are taking part in the talks. They are reporting to Robert Kyncl, YouTube’s chief business officer and another former Netflix executive, according to the report in the Wall Street Journal.
While YouTube is free for users and paid for through advertising, it recently launched a paid service called YouTube Red, without ads, in the US.
Exclusive or premium content could persuade more viewers to purchase the service.