Catenaa, Saturday, April 11, 2026- Global video revenues are projected to surpass $1 trillion by 2030, driven almost entirely by online content, according to research from Omdia. Analysts expect the total market to rise from $775 billion in 2025 to $1 trillion, with digital advertising and streaming subscription services leading the expansion.
Online Video Growth Dominates Market
Online video ad revenue is forecast to reach $540 billion by 2030, representing a 75% increase from 2025. Social video platforms, including Meta, TikTok, and YouTube, are expected to generate $400 billion of that total, capturing the majority of online ad spend.
ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, overtook Meta in early 2025, with quarterly revenues of $48 billion compared to Meta’s $47.5 billion. YouTube’s revenue exceeded $60 billion for 2025, combining advertising and subscription income.
Free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) is emerging as a notable contributor. Omdia projects FAST revenues will nearly double from $6 billion in 2025 to $11 billion by 2030. Online subscription and transaction revenues are also expected to grow, rising from $174 billion to $216 billion, reinforcing digital content’s dominant role. Overall, online platforms are forecast to account for 73% of total global TV and video revenues by 2030, up from 62% in 2025.
Impact on Traditional TV
This surge in digital content is expected to more than offset declines in traditional linear TV and pay TV, which Omdia predicts will fall 8% and 6%, respectively. Industry experts say the shift reflects structural changes in media consumption. ITV’s ongoing talks to sell its broadcasting division to Sky illustrate the pressure on linear TV, allowing the company to prioritize streaming services.
Older audiences are increasingly engaging with online video, particularly long-form content on YouTube. Ofcom data indicate viewers over 55 nearly doubled their YouTube viewing on TVs in 2024 compared to the previous year. While still behind younger audiences, who average 18 minutes per day, the trend highlights the broadening appeal of digital platforms beyond traditional younger demographics.
Market Dynamics and Strategy
Social video advertising is becoming the dominant force reshaping monetization strategies. The popularity of long-form content and interactive platforms allows advertisers to target audiences with precision, increasing engagement and revenue potential. Analysts note that content creators and streaming operators must adjust strategies to capture shifting ad dollars while competing with global social platforms.
The rise of digital video revenue also underscores the importance of mergers and acquisitions, as seen in high-profile disputes over Warner Bros. Discovery between Netflix and Paramount. The battle reflects the increasing value of content libraries and platform reach in a market where online consumption dominates.
Outlook and Implications
By 2030, online video is expected to solidify its position as the primary driver of media revenue, marginalizing traditional broadcast models. Platforms that innovate with personalized, interactive content and effectively leverage social and streaming channels are likely to lead the market. Investors and operators may prioritize acquisitions, partnerships, and technology upgrades to capture digital ad spend and subscription growth.
The growth of social and streaming video is reshaping the global media landscape, signaling a shift in both consumer habits and revenue strategies. Traditional broadcasters face mounting pressure to adapt, while online platforms benefit from expanding demographics and increasing engagement. Analysts predict that the ongoing digital transition will continue to accelerate over the next decade, defining the future of video consumption worldwide.
