As 2024 wraps up, one thing is clear, YouTube is now the biggest streaming platform in people’s living rooms. YouTube says that viewers across the globe collectively streamed over 1 billion hours daily on TV. People are watching sports content, kids’ content, and podcasts using YouTube apps on TV. As a person who is really interested in tech, I also admire how YouTube is redefining our TV experience.
Creators have also improved their content and are now uploading high-quality content for TV viewers. With 4K video uploads increasing by 35%, content looks sharper and more cinematic on larger screens. This is the reason creators are now earning well from TV views. Revenue from TV views has grown by 30% this year. This is the reason YouTube has added a subscribe button directly to the video player on TVs. Tests confirmed that it increased channel subscriptions through TVs by 40%.
Watching sports content also jumped by 30% this year. Fans watched game clips, highlights, and interviews. The platform also tested the Watch With feature where creators act as sportscasters and give their live commentary and reactions to games.
Kids’ content is also one of the most popular types of content on YouTube TV. Channels like Ms. Rachel saw record-breaking watchtimes. To make YouTube safer for kids, YouTube introduced a parent code feature. It allows parents to block content they find inappropriate. Switching between YouTube and YouTube Kids profiles became simpler. This move shows how YouTube is adapting to its growing role in family entertainment
Podcasts are also growing on YouTube. YouTube viewers streamed over 400 million hours of podcasts every month on their living room screens. Creators are also transforming podcasts into visual experiences. This shift from audio-only to visual storytelling highlights how YouTube is pushing the boundaries of traditional media.
It seems 2024 was just the start of YouTube’s TV takeover. YouTube is trying to make sure you get interesting content right on your TV. Focusing on TV-friendly features, high-quality content, and innovative tools sets YouTube apart from traditional TV and other streaming platforms.
What excites me most is how creators are shaping this shift. They are not just adapting; they are now earning a significant portion of their revenue from TV viewers. This is proof that the platform is growing in ways that benefit both audiences and content makers.
Looking ahead, I can’t wait to see what YouTube has in store for 2025.
