Google-owned YouTube crosses one billion monthly active users; ‘we're just getting started’, says CEO Neal Mohan

Google-owned YouTube recently announced that it now has one billion monthly active users watching podcast content, making it the most frequently used platform for listening to podcasts in the US, according to the company. YouTube CEO Neal Mohan shared the milestone in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. He wrote:
“Incredible news: @YouTube has reached over 1 billion monthly active podcast users. Huge thanks to our amazing creators for making this possible. Your talent and dedication have made YouTube the go-to platform for podcasts, and we're just getting started.”

“We’ve specifically developed our podcast product experience to make it easier for fans to find podcasts they love, discover new ones, and watch (or listen!) wherever they want. We’ve also added more and more podcasters into our revenue-sharing program, the YouTube Partner Program,” YouTube stated.
Earlier this month, YouTube marked its 20th anniversary, and CEO Neal Mohan outlined four key focus areas for the platform in 2025. These strategic "big bets" aim to strengthen YouTube’s role as a top entertainment and information hub while improving the user experience.
Mohan highlighted that YouTube will remain central to major cultural moments, from elections to global events like the Olympics and the Super Bowl. The platform is committed to fostering a dynamic community where everyone has a voice and can engage with diverse content.
Describing YouTube creators as the "startups of Hollywood," Mohan emphasized their innovative approach to content production. Over the past three years, the YouTube Partner Program has paid out more than $70 billion to creators, artists, and media companies. To support its creator ecosystem, YouTube plans to roll out new tools to boost monetization and improve podcast discovery.
With TV now the dominant device for YouTube viewing in the U.S., the platform is focusing on enhancing the TV experience. This includes features like a second-screen experience, allowing users to interact with videos on their phones while watching on TV, and "Watch With," which lets creators provide live commentary and real-time reactions to events.
Generative AI remains a top priority for YouTube, with continued investments in AI-driven tools to empower creators and artists. The platform plans to expand auto-dubbing to more users and integrate Google DeepMind’s Veo 2 into Dream Screen. AI-powered features like the Inspiration Tab and Dream Track will also receive significant enhancements.