The Think Media Podcast YouTube CEO Just Revealed the Biggest Changes for 2026 (7 Must-Know Takeaways)
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Jan 23, 2026 Conversation unpacks YouTube's big priorities for 2026 and how the platform will evolve across formats and screens. They highlight Shorts becoming the primary discovery layer and auto-dubbing widening global reach. AI creation tools, likeness avatars, and features to prevent creator burnout get attention. Discussion also covers youth-focused policies, creator monetization shifts, and the changing viewer experience with AI.
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YouTube Is Still The Dominant Creator Platform
- YouTube remains the dominant, long-form-and-short video platform and has paid creators over $100 billion in four years.
- Sean Cannell highlights YouTube's scale and responsibility to creators as a lasting place to build a business.
All Formats, More Screens
- YouTube supports every video format from 15-second shorts to 15-hour livestreams, working across phones and TVs.
- Sean notes over 50% of YouTube consumption now happens on television screens, expanding reach beyond mobile.
Make Shorts Your Discovery Engine
- Use Shorts as your primary discovery tool and build a Shorts strategy to funnel viewers to long form.
- Adapt to Shorts being front-and-center on feeds and pivot your content strategy accordingly.