The question of whether short-form video views contribute to a creator’s accumulated time watched on the platform is a crucial consideration for those seeking monetization. For videos categorized as “Shorts,” engagement metrics are processed differently than for traditional long-form uploads. Understanding these distinctions is vital for gauging eligibility for the YouTube Partner Program.
Accruing sufficient watch time is a key component in qualifying for revenue sharing and unlocking various creator tools. Historically, the emphasis has been on longer-form content to achieve the necessary 4,000 hours within a 12-month period. However, the popularity of short-form video has led to adjustments in how the platform assesses eligibility, affecting strategies for channel growth and monetization.