The balance is changing rapidly in the world of television, and YouTube is leading the way. Recent studies show that television viewing habits are undergoing a major transformation and digital platforms are leading the race. According to Nielsen’s new report, YouTube ratings have surpassed television ratings by a historic margin. So what are the reasons behind this rise?
YouTube outpaces television
Nielsen’s report reveals that the digital audience is growing rapidly and streaming platforms are now a candidate for the throne of television. In July, streaming platforms accounted for 41.4 percent of all television viewership, with “YouTube” capturing the largest share at 10 percent.
This is the first time a streaming platform has reached double digits in television viewership. Other platforms such as Disney+ and Roku Channel also broke their own records.
Cable, television’s longtime stronghold, held steady in July, with cable TV’s viewership declining to 26.7 percent as overall TV usage increased. In contrast, news channels showed a particularly notable rise. Fox News Channel continued to lead the pack, appearing on 24 of the 25 most-watched cable programs in July.
YouTube and other streaming platforms are no longer limited to smartphones and tablets, but are also gaining a significant foothold on the big screens of televisions. Programs that once dominated television ratings are now being replaced by digital content. Time will tell what role streaming will play in the future of television, but it is already clear that this trend will continue.