Overview
- Ofcom's Media Nations report, published Wednesday, found 26% of UK viewers in 2025 said they turn to Netflix first while 25% chose the BBC, a narrow lead that reflects changing habits.
- The change is sharply age‑based, with 36% of 16–24 year olds picking Netflix first and 48% of over‑75s still choosing the BBC.
- YouTube use has surged, with on‑TV viewing doubling to 19 minutes per person per day and total home‑device viewing rising to 41 minutes, adding new competition for broadcasters and advertisers.
- Streaming player revenues in the UK rose about 18% in 2025 mainly because platforms raised subscription prices rather than adding many new users, while commercial broadcaster revenues fell and third‑party production funding hit a record £748m.
- The audience and revenue shifts are driving consolidation and policy pressure, seen in recent merger moves and the BBC's July plans for roughly £500m of savings as ministers weigh changes to the licence fee and the upcoming Charter review.