Gen Z's Shift from TV to Short-Form Video

YouTube and TikTok Take Center Stage

Gen Z is making a significant move away from traditional TV and paid streaming services, opting instead for YouTube and TikTok for entertainment and news. A recent report reveals that 43% of Gen Z prefers these platforms over old-school TV.

The Rise of Microdramas

One of the latest trends catching on is "microdramas." These are short, scripted episodes that last just 1-2 minutes but tell an ongoing story. The report found that 28 million U.S. adults, with more than half being between 18-34 years old, are tuning in to watch these quick, engaging stories.

Predictions for Media Consumption

The report predicts some big changes in how we consume media. By 2029, global internet and media revenue is expected to grow by $388 billion. People are spending more time streaming video, with an average of 4 hours and 8 minutes per day. Meanwhile, time spent watching traditional TV is expected to drop to just 1 hour and 17 minutes.

Streaming vs. Traditional TV

Streaming revenues, from ads and subscriptions, are projected to grow by 18-19% each year. In contrast, traditional TV revenues are expected to decline by 4-6% annually. This shift shows how quickly consumer habits are changing.

The Multitasking Phenomenon

The report also notes that people are multitasking more than ever, effectively living a "32-hour, 17-minute day" online. On average, people spend over 13 hours a day on media, using various social media platforms like Instagram, X, and TikTok. Companies like Amazon are jumping on this trend by creating more video content, and streaming services like Spotify are expanding into audiobooks.

A Fundamental Change

This shift in media consumption is not just a trend; it's a fundamental change in how people, especially younger generations, engage with content. It's a clear sign that traditional TV is losing its grip, and digital platforms are taking over.