YouTube tightens monetization rules for new creators
The platform doubles the requirements for its Partner Program eligibility.
1YouTube's new rules
YouTube is significantly raising the bar for its Partner Program. Starting February 1, 2024, new applicants will need 1,000 subscribers plus either 8,000 watch hours in the past year or 20 million Shorts views in the last 90 days. This doubles the current requirements of 4,000 hours and 10 million Shorts views.
2Changes for existing creators
Current program members will face new rules too. They must maintain either 1,000 annual watch hours or 1 million Shorts views. However, uploading 2 long-form videos or 5 Shorts every 90 days exempts them. Creators inactive for six months will be removed from the program.
3Shorts revenue model
A special rule targets Shorts creators: failing to maintain 10 million views every 90 days cuts their revenue share for that period. This emphasizes sustainable audience building despite Shorts' temporary popularity spikes.
4Premium Lite expansion
YouTube plans to balance these changes by expanding its Premium Lite subscription globally. This ad-free viewing package excludes music services. The company claims increased subscribers will lead to higher creator earnings.
5Subscription data unclear
YouTube hasn't shared clear data on whether Premium Lite will offset the new requirements. The platform has 125 million paid users across all subscription tiers, a small fraction compared to its 2.7 billion monthly active users.
6Competitive moves
YouTube has been making strategic moves against rivals like Netflix and HBO Max. Exclusive deals with personalities like Trevor Noah and new 'seasons' content organization signal a shift toward series formats.
7Risk for small creators
The new rules particularly threaten new and small-scale creators. Higher view thresholds create additional growth barriers, potentially driving migration to alternative platforms.
8Platform's long-term strategy
YouTube's move aims to encourage quality, consistent content production. However, it risks losing small creators entirely in the medium to long term. Balancing policies will be crucial for maintaining a healthy content ecosystem.
Original article: Engadget — YouTube yeni içerik üreticiler için kazanç kapısını daraltıyor