It has already been revealed that a YouTube mobile app update will bring offline viewing functionality in November. Only yesterday more details about this feature emerged, users will be allowed to store videos on their devices for 48 hours, they can be viewed anytime within that window without needing an internet connection. Once the 48 hour window is up, the device must be connected to the internet again if the user wants to view those videos. Vevo, one of the biggest content providers on YouTube, will block the offline viewing feature for its videos.
A Vevo spokeswoman confirmed to Variety that “We’re not going to allow viewing of our music videos or other programming in offline mode.” She reportedly didn’t elaborate on what has compelled Vevo to make this decision. It is possible that under the licensing agreements that Vevo has with music labels, it might not be allowed to offer downloaded versions of the music videos. Vevo has licensing deals with UMG, EMI Music, CBS Interactive Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, Hollywood Records and others. A memo was leaked yesterday which Google has apparently sent to its partners, the company allows them to opt out of offline viewing if they so wish.