From 24 August 2026, YouTube counts a view from the first second of playback, for regular videos, Shorts and Live, with no minimum watch time. Views before that date keep the old method. Public view counts will rise and not be comparable with older numbers. Engaged views remain in YouTube Analytics and still drive Partner Program payouts, so payment figures do not change. If you use view counts to show brands or partners what your channel delivers, check your numbers after the switch and report engaged views alongside them.