Google SA announced today it has launched YouTube in Afrikaans and isiZulu.
The announcement was made at the second annual G-SA event, in Johannesburg, where global experts are conducting training on Google products for local industry professionals.
YouTube.co.za, the local version of YouTube, was released just over a year ago, and YouTube views have reportedly increased by 175% in SA in the last year.
Google country manager Luke McKend says: “The new language versions mean that Internet users whose first language is isiZulu or Afrikaans can now fully enjoy what YouTube has to offer.
“YouTube gives South Africans the power to broadcast themselves, with great content in both languages increasingly finding its way onto YouTube. Popular Afrikaans channels include Die Heuwels Fantasties, HuisegenootTempo, kanaalMK and Pasella TV. Meanwhile, Mducomics is a trumpet for isiZulu content and users can easily find Zulu music on JusGorilla.”
Google SA says local users can use YouTube Feather, which is the 'lite' version of the service, designed to make content accessible to those with low-speed connections. The service can be found in TestTube, where new products are being tested.
“YouTube has the world's largest audience - video is a mode of communication that allows everyone's voice to be heard,” says McKend.
“YouTube is also a place where culture is created and shared, so we're looking forward to seeing more South African videos uploaded, including content in isiZulu and Afrikaans.”
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