- YouTube remains the top global platform for live-streaming
- It accounts for over 50% of total hours watched in Q1 2025, according to a Streams Charts report.
- In India, YouTube’s dominance is stronger than ever
It began in 2005 with a single video titled “Me at the zoo.” Today, YouTube is one of the most powerful content platforms in the world — a go-to destination for everything from live cricket matches and film trailers to DIY tutorials and full-length podcasts. Over the years, it has redefined what it means to be a content creator, launched entire careers, and become an integral part of how millions consume media — especially in India.
Now, nearly two decades later, YouTube continues to lead the global video streaming game. A new report by Streams Charts confirms that YouTube accounted for the highest number of livestreaming hours watched globally in the first quarter of 2025. It commanded a staggering 50.3% share of the total watch time across all major livestreaming platforms — comfortably ahead of competitors like TikTok and Twitch.
In India, YouTube’s dominance is even more visible. With TikTok banned since 2020 and Twitch having limited presence, YouTube has become the de facto video hub — for both creators and audiences. The platform offers regional content in nearly every Indian language and caters to all demographics, from tech-savvy Gen Z users to rural audiences who rely on it for educational content and news.
YouTube’s appeal lies in its adaptability. From long-form content to the introduction of Shorts — a direct answer to TikTok’s short video model — and its expanded livestreaming features, the platform has consistently evolved with changing viewer preferences. It now supports podcasting, monetised livestreams, community engagement tools, and an AI-powered recommendation engine that keeps viewers hooked.
But the competition is catching up. While YouTube leads globally, the Streams Charts report notes that TikTok is fast emerging as a livestreaming force, with over 8 billion watch hours and 27% global share in Q1 2025. Though banned in India, TikTok’s rise signals changing global consumption patterns — and a need for YouTube to keep innovating to retain its top spot.
For now, YouTube’s throne appears secure — particularly in India. Its deep integration into the daily digital routine of users, strong monetisation tools for creators, and unmatched content diversity make it a cultural mainstay. But as new platforms rise and user behaviour shifts, the question isn’t whether YouTube will fall — but whether it can keep reinventing itself to stay on top.
