Last May, YouTube reached a major milestone in France, confirming its leading role in the audiovisual landscape. With 42.6 million users aged over 15, the platform is ahead of traditional television channels in terms of audience, according to a Médiamétrie study. At the dawn of its 20th anniversary, YouTube is no longer limited to being a simple online video site: it has established itself as the leading television channel in France.
A record audience that redefines standards
The figures revealed by Médiamétrie illustrate a meteoric rise. In May, YouTube recorded a spectacular increase in its audience, thanks to a strategy of varied content adapted to demanding audiences. Whether short videos or long documentaries, the platform has been able to meet the expectations of a diverse audience.
The documentary “Kaizen” produced by Inoxtag illustrates this success. With more than 37 million views and 340,000 spectators in theaters, it demonstrates that YouTube now competes with major French audiovisual productions.
A winning multi-format strategy
According to Justine Rystgeneral manager of YouTube France, one of the major assets of the platform lies in its multi-format model. This offers exceptional creative freedom, allowing creators to produce content suitable for all screens: from short formats for mobile to long videos for traditional consumption.
“Our uniqueness is multi-format,” emphasizes Justine Ryst. This flexibility attracts creators from all backgrounds and meets user expectations, facing competition from platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Strategic partnerships and media figures
To consolidate its leading status, YouTube is banking on strategic partnerships. Collaborations with institutions like Arte make it possible to expand its catalog of content, thus attracting a wider audience. At the same time, emblematic figures of French television, such asElise Lucet et Claire Chazaljoin the platform, strengthening its credibility as a serious media.
A cultural creation laboratory
With its ability to bring together creators from varied generations and backgrounds, YouTube is becoming a true cultural crossroads. “The essence of YouTube lies in bringing together all these generations of creation,” explains Justine Ryst. This unique ecosystem promotes innovation and enriches the French audiovisual landscape.
As YouTube prepares to celebrate its 20th anniversary, its ambition to become a key player in the audiovisual sector is only confirmed. Whether it’s entertainment, education or culture, the platform lays the foundations for a future where creativity and accessibility become one.
