The demand for news video is growing (and that’s a good thing for publishers)

Demand for news video is increasing, according to the newly published Digital News Report. While a decade ago publishers faced challenges with misleading metrics for video investment, current data indicates a growing audience appetite, particularly driven by platforms like TikTok. This demand is not confined to short-form content. Consumption rates for online news video on social media platforms are notably higher in Asia and Latin America compared to Europe and North America. Specifically, 47% of individuals in Asia watch news videos on YouTube weekly, contrasting with 24% in Europe. Similarly, 47% in Latin America regularly view news videos on Facebook, versus 28% in North America. Factors contributing to these regional differences include high mobile phone and social media usage in Global South markets, and crucially, age demographics. Younger populations are shaping emerging news consumption patterns. The report also highlights that social media has become the primary global news access point, surpassing television and news websites. This trend is largely influenced by younger demographics, aged 18 to 24, who have grown up with ubiquitous digital technology and social media.