YouTube has recently reached a major milestone in its push for more living room engagement, with the platform now receiving more total viewership on TV sets than on mobile devices in the U.S. This shift reflects the growing trend of users consuming video content in the home, with more than 1 billion hours watched across both TV and mobile platforms, according to YouTube CEO Neal Mohan. The announcement highlights how the company has successfully integrated itself into traditional entertainment spaces, changing the way people engage with content.
This achievement marks a significant moment in YouTube’s 20-year journey, which began on February 14, 2005. Google acquired the platform for $1.65 billion in 2006, and since then, it has evolved from a simple video-sharing site into a core player in the global media and entertainment industry. As YouTube celebrates its two decades, Mohan's focus is on solidifying its place within the larger media ecosystem, particularly as TV continues to dominate in the U.S. for platform viewing.
The company´s decision to measure watch time across devices has provided insight into this trend, revealing that TV is now the preferred device for many U.S. users. With mobile and desktop views taking a backseat, this shift reinforces YouTube’s increasing prominence as a primary entertainment source. As Mohan emphasizes, YouTube's reach within the entertainment industry is growing rapidly, and this move to the living room is central to that success.
In addition to bolstering TV viewership, YouTube has also been expanding its platform with new features. One such tool, "Watch With," is designed to enhance user interaction by allowing creators to offer live commentary and reactions during events like games. YouTube has already started testing the feature with the NFL and plans to roll it out with other content creators throughout the year. This initiative will likely foster greater engagement and community interaction on the platform.
The rising prominence of YouTube on TV sets shows the platform's shifting role in the media landscape. What began as a website for short clips has become a dominant force in video entertainment, with viewers increasingly choosing to experience it through their television screens. As it celebrates its 20th anniversary, YouTube's continuing growth into the living room underscores its transformation into a central hub for media consumption.