YouTube has officially become the leading platform for television viewing in the United States, surpassing mobile devices in terms of watch time, according to a recent blog post from YouTube CEO Neal Mohan.
This milestone marks a significant shift in the way audiences consume digital content, highlighting YouTube’s growing influence on the traditional TV landscape.
“This year marks YouTube’s 20th birthday. In two decades, YouTube has transformed culture through video and built a thriving creative economy. Today’s creators have moved from filming grainy videos of themselves on desktop computers to building studios and producing popular talk shows and feature-length films. And people aren’t just watching YouTube on their computers or phones. TV has surpassed mobile and is now the primary device for YouTube viewing in the U.S. (by watch time), and according to Nielsen, YouTube has been #1 in streaming watch time in the U.S. for two years,” Mohan stated in his blog post.
The shift toward TV as the dominant YouTube viewing device comes as more creators produce high-quality, long-form content tailored for larger screens. From podcasts to live sports commentary, YouTube is increasingly positioned as the new face of television, offering a more interactive and diverse experience than traditional networks.
Mohan also outlined four major areas of focus for YouTube in 2025:
First, YouTube will remain at the center of cultural trends, providing a unique platform for free speech and creative expression.
Events such as the U.S. presidential election, the Olympics, and major entertainment spectacles like Coachella and the Super Bowl have all played out significantly on YouTube. Podcasts have also seen explosive growth, making YouTube the most frequently used service for podcast listening in the U.S.
Second, YouTube creators are evolving into full-fledged production studios, rivaling traditional Hollywood models.
Many are investing in high-end studios and experimenting with new business models, diversifying their revenue streams beyond ads and YouTube Premium. The rise of shopping recommendations, memberships, and brand partnerships has allowed creators to turn their channels into profitable businesses.
Third, YouTube’s dominance on television is solidifying its position as the new standard for TV consumption.
The platform now records over a billion hours of watch time daily on connected TVs, blending Shorts, live streams, and episodic content with traditional-style programming. Features like second-screen integration and "Watch With" live commentary for sports events are reshaping how audiences engage with digital video.
Finally, artificial intelligence is playing an increasingly crucial role in content creation and audience engagement.
AI-powered tools such as auto dubbing, Dream Screen, and Dream Track are making it easier for creators to produce and distribute content globally. YouTube is also focusing on building safeguards against AI misuse, ensuring that creators and artists retain control over their digital presence.
As YouTube enters its third decade, it continues to redefine how people watch, create, and interact with video content while expanding its role in entertainment, news, and cultural discourse.