YouTube and Netflix have released a new report showing how much time people spend watching video on TV screens compared with phones and laptops. The research shows how viewers choose to watch content and suggests that TV screens remain central even as mobile viewing continues.
Highlights of the report
According to the H2 2025 State of Streaming Report done by TVision, a large share of overall viewing time still happens on connected TVs and larger screens. While phones and tablets are popular for shorter sessions or watching on the go, TV screens account for longer viewing periods and tend to dominate when audiences watch movies, shows or extended videos. This pattern was consistent across different regions and age groups included in the study.
The report says the findings reflect how viewers think about different types of content. Short clips and quick browsing often happen on phones, while longer videos are more likely to be watched on a TV. The report suggests that these habits influence not just how people consume entertainment but how creators and platforms plan content and features for each screen type.
Why TV screens still matter
Even with the rise of mobile and on-the-go viewing, TV screens remain a key focus for both YouTube and Netflix because they tend to lead to longer viewing sessions. Streaming on TV also supports shared viewing in homes, which can increase total watch time per session. Advertisers and content planners pay attention to these patterns when they decide where to show certain content and ads.
The report also highlights a few clear trends. Short-form video and casual browsing are more common on phones and tablets. Laptops remain a go-to device for multi-tasking, watching while working or viewing on desks. TV screens, on the other hand, are dominant for full episodes or movies. This division mirrors how people think about their viewing goals for each device type