How YouTube Works

As we enter 2026, the lines between creativity and technology are blurring, sparking a new era of innovation. This inflection point requires ambitious bets. YouTube is the undisputed epicenter of culture. Our creators are reinventing entertainment and building the media companies of the future, and we continue to be the best place for them to grow a business. YouTube has the scale, community, and technological investments to lead the creative industry into this next era.

YouTube is where teens come to watch what they love – everything from brushing up on their studies, to their favorite creators, to buzzworthy podcasts, to epic sports highlights.

We are happy to announce that YouTube is now the largest digital library of Sesame Street content, bringing a treasure trove of iconic episodes, original videos, unique Shorts, and thematic programming right to families everywhere.

The rise in popularity of new technologies among teenagers, from gaming to smartphones to streaming platforms, has understandably raised important questions about not only the right way for parents to help their kids navigate the changing tech landscape; but also the role that regulation should play in both protecting and empowering young people.

Pop the confetti, because YouTube is turning 20! From the 19-second clip that started it all, to now over 20 billion uploaded videos,1 including music, Shorts, podcasts, and more, we’ve grown so much in just two decades. We’re kicking off our birthday with plenty of ways to celebrate. Take a peek at some of our new features, stats, hidden gems, and easter eggs below to help you join in on the festivities:

Today, YouTube is pleased to join over a dozen regional content creators and distributors representing ten countries to participate in the Youth Digital Wellbeing Initiative, supporting a unified vision for the development of high-quality, age-appropriate content for young people.