Mumbai: Google-owned YouTube has announced that popular television shows and films from major studios will be available in the US for free, with ads, using smart televisions, mobile devices or web browsers. The video platform has over 1,500 films from Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution, Warner Bros, Paramount Pictures, Lionsgate, FilmRise, and more.

The American audience will now have access to nearly 4,000 episodes of TV shows like "Hell’s Kitchen," "Andromeda," "Heartland," and many more. New titles in March include "Gone in Sixty Seconds," "Runaway Bride" and "Legally Blonde."

US users can access these films and shows and up to 100 new titles each week on web browsers, mobile devices, and most connected TVs via the YouTube on TV app.

“More people are choosing to experience YouTube on the big screen with friends and family. In fact, according to Nielsen, YouTube reached over 135 million people on connected TVs in the US in December 2021. YouTube is at the forefront of the consumer shift to CTV viewership as the top ad-supported streaming platform with the content people enjoy and the creators they love,” YouTube said in a blog post.

To enhance the viewing experience, the video platform is also unveiling brand new streamlined navigation and immersive banner art. The rich visuals and new menus will help users more easily find their favourite TV shows, whether they choose to rent, purchase, or watch for free with ads. Many of these titles are also now available in high definition 1080p with 5.1 surround sound audio on supported devices.