YouTube’s New View Count Rule Could Boost Your Numbers

​YouTube has announced an update to its view count methodology for Shorts, the platform’s short-form video feature. Effective March 31, 2025, a view will be recorded each time a Short begins to play or replay, eliminating the previous requirement for a minimum watch duration.
This change aligns YouTube’s approach with that of competitors like TikTok and Instagram Reels, where views are counted immediately upon playback. The adjustment aims to provide creators with a more immediate understanding of their content’s reach.​

Creators should note that while this update may lead to an increase in reported view counts, it does not impact the criteria for the YouTube Partner Program (YPP). Eligibility for YPP continues to require 1,000 subscribers and 10 million valid public Shorts views within the past 90 days. To monitor authentic engagement, creators can utilize YouTube Analytics’ Advanced Mode to assess metrics such as watch time and viewer retention. ​

This update reflects YouTube’s ongoing efforts to adapt its platform in response to creator feedback and industry trends.​