What is YouTube watch time?

YouTube watch time, also known as audience retention, is all about how long viewers stick around to watch your videos. Creators need 4,000 watch time hours in the past 12 months to monetize their YouTube channel.

Watch time is not just a number; it's a goldmine of insights revealing what keeps your audience glued to their screens. And guess what? The longer they watch, the more YouTube's algorithm recognizes your channel, boosts your visibility and opens up a world of opportunities, from brand deals to collaborations.

With the average audience retention hovering around 50%-60%, every extra minute a viewer spends with your content is a step towards your YouTube success.