YouTube Monetization Threshold Doubles for New Creators
YouTube is raising its YouTube monetization threshold for new creators starting February 1. The change will make it harder for beginners to earn through ads and subscriptions. New channels will need 8,000 qualified watch hours during the previous year. Alternatively, creators can reach 20 million qualified Shorts views within 90 days. Previously, creators needed 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours. Shorts creators could qualify with 10 million views during 90 days.
Higher Requirements for Creators
YouTube says existing members will not face the new entry requirements. However, Shorts creators must maintain 10 million views every 90 days for Shorts earnings. Channels below that figure can still earn from long-form videos. Their Shorts earnings will return after they reach the required view count again. YouTube says the changes reflect its rapid growth across the platform. The company reports more than 200 billion daily Shorts views and over one billion daily TV watch hours. As a result, new creators may face greater pressure to build large audiences. Smaller channels could also need more time before reaching monetization.
YouTube Also Announced Wider Access To Premium Lite.
The cheaper subscription will reach every market where YouTube Premium currently operates. Creators receive part of Premium subscription revenue based on viewer activity. YouTube says long-form creators receive 55%, while Shorts creators receive 45%.
Premium Lite removes ads from most videos and supports downloads. Users can also play videos in the background.
Meanwhile, other platforms continue changing their creator payment systems. X recently updated its rules to focus payouts on original content.
Facebook also introduced a new monetization program earlier this year. The program targets creators who currently build audiences on TikTok and YouTube. These changes show how major platforms are tightening creator rewards. Therefore, creators may need stronger audiences and more consistent content to earn online.
