Google may soon restrict access to lyrics on YouTube Music to paying subscribers, according to reports that the company is testing a paywall for the popular feature.

Currently, all users of YouTube Music including those on the free tier can view lyrics while a song is playing, either on the web or through the mobile app. But screenshots shared by a Reddit user suggest that Google is experimenting with a limit on free usage. One message displayed in the app read: “You have three views remaining. Unlock lyrics with Premium.”

Once the limit is reached, lyrics are no longer displayed unless the user upgrades to a YouTube Music Premium subscription.

Limited Testing Underway

Google has not publicly commented on the reported change. In tests conducted by several outlets, including both free and Premium accounts across web and mobile, the lyrics feature continued to work without restriction suggesting that the paywall is part of a limited trial to gauge user reaction.

The company is known for conducting such experiments before making broader decisions about feature rollouts or cancellations.

Industry Context

If implemented, the move would place YouTube Music in line with earlier attempts by competitors to monetize lyrics. Spotify previously tested a paywall for lyrics in 2023 but quickly abandoned the idea after widespread backlash from users.

Currently, Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music all offer access to lyrics at no extra cost as part of their standard service.

User Workarounds and Reactions

For users affected by the restriction, temporary workarounds may include switching browsers, using private browsing mode, or signing out of accounts. However, options are limited for those logged into free YouTube Music accounts.

Some frustrated users have already suggested switching to rival platforms that do not restrict lyrics.

The development comes as Google intensifies efforts to prevent abuse of YouTube Premium accounts, cracking down on users who share logins or exploit regional pricing loopholes.

What’s Next

It remains unclear whether the lyrics paywall will be rolled out globally, scrapped after testing, or modified following user feedback. For now, YouTube Music Premium subscribers remain unaffected.