In a landmark shift for British media, YouTube has officially dethroned the BBC and ITV as the most-watched video platform in the UK, according to a new report from Ofcom.
The regulator's annual study found that 93% of UK adults now use YouTube, compared to 85% for BBC TV and 69% for ITV. The Google-owned platform has become the go-to destination for entertainment, news, and educational content, particularly among younger audiences.
The Changing Media Landscape
Ofcom's research highlights how streaming services and online platforms are reshaping viewing habits. While traditional broadcasters still command significant audiences, their dominance is waning as digital natives turn to on-demand content.
Key findings include:
- YouTube users spend an average of 30 minutes daily on the platform
- Short-form content like YouTube Shorts is driving engagement
- 75% of 16-24 year-olds prefer online platforms over linear TV
Implications for Broadcasters
The BBC and ITV now face increasing pressure to adapt their strategies. While both have launched successful streaming services (iPlayer and ITVX respectively), they're struggling to match YouTube's vast content library and algorithmic recommendations.
An Ofcom spokesperson noted: "This represents a fundamental change in how UK audiences consume media. Broadcasters must innovate to remain relevant in this new environment."
The report also raises questions about content regulation, as YouTube operates under different rules than traditional broadcasters.
