YouTube Music has launched its free, ad-supported service via Google Home speakers.

The streaming service launched last summer in premium and free versions. YouTube has now extended the free service to Google Home speakers, as well as other Google Assistant-powered speakers.

The move signifies an obvious music tech synergy for Google and YouTube. Spotify has also partnered with Google Home on a tie-up on Google Mini speakers for subscribers.

YouTube Music is accessible on Google Home in 16 countries including the UK, US, Canada, Australia, Japan and Germany. It will launch in more territories soon.

However, users of the free service will not be able to request specific artists or playlists unless they upgrade to the premium service. Free users will get a relevant station based on their request.

YouTube’s streaming service has been expanding its international presence, including a fully licensed launch in India.

Spotify rebooted its ad-funded free service last year. But it now faces competition from both YouTube Music and Amazon Music, with reports that Amazon Prime Music is set to roll out as an ad-funded free service to non-Prime members.

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