YouTube Adds Device Data to Audience Tab

YouTube has recently updated its Analytics to feature more prominent device data, allowing creators to better understand how their audiences are consuming content. This update helps creators tailor their videos to the shifting viewing habits of their audience, providing key insights into the devices being used to watch their content.

Creators can now easily view device type data, which reveals the specific platforms and devices their audiences are using. This data helps identify patterns in how content is consumed, whether it’s on mobile, desktop, or other devices.

The device usage patterns can also influence video recommendations, as they provide valuable information on which devices perform best for certain types of content. By understanding these trends, creators can optimise their videos to ensure they reach their audience more effectively across different devices.

YouTube is rolling out a new update to YouTube Analytics (YTA) that makes it easier for creators to understand how their content is consumed across different device types.

Previously, device data was somewhat hidden, but now it is more prominently displayed in the Audience tab on both the desktop and mobile versions of YouTube Analytics. This update provides creators with better insights into how their audience engages with their content, whether on a mobile phone, tablet, desktop, or smart TV. By seeing how users interact with their videos across various devices, creators can adjust their content strategy to better match shifting viewing habits.

This move reflects YouTube’s ongoing effort to help content creators fine-tune their strategies based on viewer behaviour. With device usage becoming an increasingly important factor in how videos are recommended, this feature is a valuable tool for those wanting to ensure their content reaches and resonates with the right audience. Understanding device trends could lead to more tailored content that better aligns with how people are watching videos, ultimately improving engagement and reach.

Enhanced Visibility For Device Data

In a recent announcement, YouTube highlighted that while data on TV viewership had previously been accessible on the desktop version of YouTube Analytics (YTA), many channel owners found it difficult to locate.

The company acknowledged this challenge and shared their intention behind the update: “We’ve talked about the rise of TV viewership for channels before. Even though the data is accessible on desktop, we heard from creators that it can be hard to find. With this update, we’re surfacing device type data more prominently across both desktop and mobile to help you see exactly how your content is being consumed.”

This change aims to make it easier for creators to understand how their videos are being viewed, especially as TV usage continues to grow. The move is designed to provide more immediate access to important insights, allowing creators to better adapt their content and strategies.

Why It Matters for Creators

Device type is an important factor that YouTube’s recommendation system takes into account when determining which videos to suggest to specific viewers. By understanding the devices your audience uses to watch content, you can gain valuable insights into how to tailor your videos for different viewing experiences.

Whether your viewers primarily watch on mobile phones, smart TVs, or other devices, this information can help you adapt your content and publishing strategies to better align with their habits and preferences.

For a deeper dive into how YouTube’s recommendation system operates, feel free to read my full report or watch the quick video summary below.