Podtrac Reports Podcast Engaged Views vs Views on YouTube
Today, Podtrac provided an initial analysis of the “Engaged Views” vs “Views” metric for video podcasts on YouTube.
Beginning August 24 2026, YouTube made a change to view metrics.
- “A view is now defined as counting from the very first frame — whether that’s a Short appearing in the feed or a long-form video autoplaying on the Home page.” “Views” is the metric now displayed publicly next to videos on YouTube.
- “An engaged view is defined as watching past that initial first frame or clicking to watch.” “Engaged Views” are no longer displayed publicly but are available through the YouTube Analytics and Reporting APIs.
Podtrac collects view activity for hundreds of video podcasts and channels through its access to the YouTube Analytics and Reporting APIs.
Here’s a summary of Podtrac’s findings about “Views” vs "Engaged Views” for video podcasts on YouTube:
YouTube Podcasts Videos
Video podcast episodes on a YouTube podcast playlist
Engaged Views: 64% of Views
Other YouTube Podcast Channel Videos
Podcast-related videos on the podcast’s YouTube Channel
Engaged Views: 58% of Views
Sample Analyzed:
84.2 million views of videos posted to YouTube Podcast Channels, August 27-28, 2026.
The lower differences in Engaged Views vs Views for video podcasts on YouTube (-36%) than for other videos on a channel (-42%) is consistent with higher intentional viewing and engagement with podcasts on YouTube vs other types of videos posted there.
Podtrac rankings will use the new "Engaged Views” metric for YouTube podcasts.
About Podtrac
Podtrac is the industry leader in podcast analytics, audience measurement, and growth solutions. Since 2005, Podtrac has provided podcasters, networks, and advertisers with the tools and insights needed to grow and engage audiences worldwide.
This is a press release which we link to from Podnews, our daily newsletter about podcasting and on-demand. We may make small edits for editorial reasons.