The Youtube Store that was first spotted in a limited trial back in January has open its virtual doors though Youtube has been conspicuously quiet about it. Currently the Youtube Store is mainly independent flicks and a big mass of Manga. YouTube was reportedly in talks with movie studios back in September 2009 but it seems as if the major studios haven’t come on board yet…
Google trialled a YouTube Store with movie rentals in January when it sold a selection of indie flicks from the Sundance Film Festival but now it’s properly opened for business in the US with film rentals starting at $0.99 and going up to $4 for newer films.
Rental periods in the YouTube Store from 24 to 72 hours but though there are some well known titles in the mix (Reservoir Dogs and recent Oscar winner Precious to name two) most of the content on offer is pretty low profile.
Compared to other options like iTunes, the YouTube Store doesn’t look that compelling yet. It’s prices are too high and it’s selection is a little meagre. Let’s hope by the time it makes its way to the UK, YouTube will have sealed some deals with the major studios.
While you wait for YouTube movie rentals to make it to these fair shores, check out our celebration of YouTube’s 5th birthday, YouTube: 5 landmark uploads.
Out now (US only) | from $0.99 | YouTube (via ReadWrite Web)
