What Is Watch Time?
Total minutes viewers spent watching; a core ranking signal.
Definition
Total minutes viewers spent watching; a core ranking signal.
What Watch Time means
Total minutes viewers spent watching; a core ranking signal.
Why it matters
Watch time shows YouTube that viewers value a video.
Practical tip
See how the YouTube algorithm works.
Learn more
Related terms
All YouTube Glossary: 14 Terms & Jargon Explained →What Is YouTube Partner Program (YPP)?YouTube's monetisation programme with eligibility thresholds.What Is Altered or Synthetic Content Label?Required disclosure for realistic AI-made or edited content.What Is Audience Retention?The share of a video viewers keep watching, moment by moment.What Is Average View Duration?Average time each view lasted.What Is Channel Memberships?Monthly paid tiers viewers can join for perks.What Is Chapters?Timestamped sections that help viewers and Google navigate a video.