YouTube has finally implemented its new monetization policy which was announced in late 2017. The new policy requires a channel to have at least 4,000 watch hours in a 12-month period and at least 1,000 subscribers to be eligible for monetization. Creators who do not meet these requirements will no longer be able to monetize their videos on the platform. This policy has raised mixed reactions among YouTubers, with some expressing their happiness while others have voiced out their concerns.
For the YouTubers who have already achieved the required watch time and subscribers, the new policy has been welcomed with open arms. They see it as an opportunity to earn more money and expand their audience. Tracy Nguyen, a beauty vlogger, says that the new policy “separates the serious creators from the hobbyists” and will encourage those who are dedicated to putting out quality content.
However, for those who are yet to achieve the new thresholds, the policy has brought about frustration and worry. Some YouTubers feel that the policy is unfair, as it impacts small creators who already find it difficult to gain traction on the platform. Many have taken to social media to express their concerns and disappointment with YouTube.
Those who have just missed the threshold have been left in a limbo. Creators like Harrison Wint, a travel vlogger, is unhappy with the new policy. He had only managed to reach 3,800 watch hours before the deadline, and feels like the policy is punishing creators like him who are just starting out. He is considering switching to other platforms to monetize his videos.
Another concern being raised by creators is the impact the new policy will have on their creativity. For the larger creators, the policy will not impact their content as they have already established themselves on the platform. However, smaller creators may feel the need to change their content to attract more views and subscribers, which may reduce the quality of their videos.
Despite the mixed reactions, YouTube has shown no sign of backing down on its new policy. The company has stated that the policy was put in place to maintain a higher standard of content on the platform, and to incentivize creators to produce quality content. YouTube has faced a lot of criticism over the last year, particularly in regards to ads being placed on inappropriate content. The new policy is intended to address these concerns.
In conclusion, the new monetization policy by YouTube has raised mixed reactions from the YouTuber community. While some have celebrated the new policy, others have voiced their disappointment and concerns. Nevertheless, it is clear that the new policy will impact creators in different ways. It remains to be seen how smaller creators will adapt to the new policy and whether the new policy will achieve YouTube’s goal of creating a higher standard of content on the platform.