Recent statistics reveal that one in five children aged 4 to 15 turns directly to YouTube when switching on the television, according to a report by The Guardian.
The report relies on data from the UK communications regulator, OfCom, regarding the platforms users prefer when watching TV. The findings show YouTube leading the list, followed by Netflix, while traditional British broadcasters such as the BBC ranked lower.
Shift in Viewing Habits
The report highlights a significant shift in home entertainment patterns, with YouTube moving from computers and mobile devices to smart TVs, gradually replacing traditional live-broadcast channels.
Additionally, viewership among adults aged 55 and older increased in 2024, with daily watch time on YouTube rising by 42% compared to 2023, demonstrating the platform’s growing popularity among older audiences.
YouTube’s Growing Role in Media
These trends underscore YouTube’s expanding influence in contemporary media, as high viewership levels position the platform as a competitor to traditional broadcasters. This popularity has prompted many broadcasters to make their content available on YouTube, despite the potential impact on traditional TV audience numbers.
OfCom has encouraged legacy broadcasters to collaborate with YouTube to host their content on the platform, while negotiating fair commercial agreements that protect the rights of both parties. In line with this, the BBC is increasing its presence on YouTube, after most of its content was previously hosted on its own website. Deborah Turness, BBC Director of News, noted that the new AI department will focus on expanding the BBC’s reach outside its own platforms, targeting younger audiences via YouTube.
Revenue Sharing Policy
The report also highlights YouTube’s revenue-sharing model, which provides content creators and rights holders only a small portion of earnings compared to the share retained by the platform itself. This presents an ongoing challenge for traditional media outlets seeking financial returns from distributing content on YouTube.
