Data-friendly YouTube Go comes out in beta in Southeast Asia

A better way to take your video addiction on the road.
By Victoria Ho  on 
Data-friendly YouTube Go comes out in beta in Southeast Asia
The YouTube app is seen on a smartphone on November 20, 2017. (Photo by Jaap Arriens/NurPhoto via Getty Images) Credit: NurPhoto via Getty Images

Google has released its data-friendly YouTube Go app in some of Southeast Asia, and Africa's new markets.

Available now in beta for Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, the app is a way to get video to users in countries where data availability might not be as complete as it is in other countries.

One of the app's key features tackling the data issue is an offline viewing mode, allowing users to first download video over Wi-Fi before hitting the road.

Users can also choose to stream video in lower resolutions or high quality, controlling their data spend.

Mashable Light Speed
Want more out-of-this world tech, space and science stories?
Sign up for Mashable's weekly Light Speed newsletter.
By signing up you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up!

The ability to download in high quality is an update from the earlier beta, which only allowed up to standard resolutions.

Mashable Image
Choose the download size Credit: youtube
Mashable Image
Browse your downloaded videos. Credit: youtube

YouTube Go was first announced about a year ago, and has since hit India, Indonesia, and Nigeria -- three vast markets that struggle with getting fast connectivity to everyone.

Besides Southeast Asia, Google today releases the beta to the African countries of Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe.

In the coming weeks, Sri Lanka, Senegal and Uganda will get it, too.

Obviously, because the app is targeted at these emerging markets, it's coming out first for Androids, not iOS. You can download it from Google Play, or sign up to be notified when it releases for your market.

Topics Google YouTube

Mashable Image
Victoria Ho

Victoria Ho is Mashable's Asia Editor, based in Singapore. She previously reported on news and tech at The Business Times, TechCrunch and ZDNet. When she isn't writing, she's making music with her band


Recommended For You
Walmart+ Week is coming: What to know about the members-only event
A graphic that says Walmart+ Week, June 17-23

$100 Doordash gift cards are only $85 at Best Buy again
Delivery driver on bike wearing Doordash backpack riding through city


Score $100 in Uber and Uber Eats gift cards for just $80 at Costco
Uber gift cards on blue and green pixelated background

Snag $100 in DoorDash gift cards for just $79.99 at Costco
DoorDash eGift cards on blue and purple abstract background

More in Tech
IRS makes Direct File a permanent option
A person has financial paperwork out while working on a computer.

Grubhub+ is officially a full-time Amazon Prime perk — celebrate with $5 off $25
Grubhub bag on delivery bike with restaurant in peripherals

Prime Day 2024 is coming: These are the best deals to watch out for
By Mashable Shopping Team
Glowing cardboard box on a blue background

30+ of the best outdoor deals to shop while Memorial Day sales are still going
a collage of outdoor items sit on a pink and orange background. They include a green REI hiking backpack, a north face tent, a blue hydro flask cooler backpack, and a solo stove.


Trending on Mashable
NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for June 12
A phone displaying the New York Times game 'Connections.'

NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for June 13
A phone displaying the New York Times game 'Connections.'

'Wordle' today: Here's the answer hints for June 12
a phone displaying Wordle

'Wordle' today: Here's the answer hints for June 13
a phone displaying Wordle

The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
This newsletter may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. Subscribing to a newsletter indicates your consent to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe from the newsletters at any time.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!