According to new Pew research, YouTube remains the most widely-used platform among young people. The survey, which involved a sample of 13-17-year-olds, found that 90% of teens regularly use YouTube.
With all the fuss around vertical videos, you might expect TikTok or Instagram to be right behind. However, usage percentages of other apps are actually a lot lower in comparison. 63% of teens said that they regularly use TikTok, while 61% opted for Instagram as their go-to app.
So, in terms of platform popularity, YouTube is clearly striding ahead. But it’s worth remembering that, ever so slightly, usage has decreased from 95% in 2022.
How Often Is YouTube Used by Teens?
It’s also worth noting that respondents said that they go on YouTube daily; making this site both the most visited and widely used platform uncovered in this survey.
Ultimately, when it comes to young people, there’s no conversation more contentious than social media. Evidence suggests that it can be harmful to young people’s mental health, with the US Surgeon General recommending that cigarette-style warning labels be issued on all the major social platforms for young people.
Still, with Pew reporting that 96% of teens use the internet daily, it’s arguable that a simple warning label is not enough. Perhaps it’s up to platforms like YouTube to limit teens’ screen time.
