YouTube terms

Playback Locations

Where the video was viewed, such as the YouTube page, embedded on another site, etc.

What is a playback location in YouTube?

A playback location in YouTube refers to the specific platform or device where a viewer watches a video. This could be directly on the YouTube website, on a mobile device through the YouTube app, or on an embedded player on another website. YouTube's analytics tools provide data on playback locations, allowing content creators to understand where their audience is primarily viewing their content.

This information can be crucial for content creators as it can influence their content strategy. For instance, if a majority of their viewers are watching on mobile devices, they might want to optimize their videos for mobile viewing. Similarly, if a significant portion of views are coming from embedded players on other websites, they might want to explore partnerships or promotional opportunities with those sites.

How to access Playback Locations in YouTube analytics?

To access Playback Locations in YouTube Analytics, you first need to sign in to your YouTube account. Once you're signed in, click on your profile picture located at the top right corner of the screen. From the drop-down menu, select "YouTube Studio". This will take you to your YouTube Studio dashboard.

In the YouTube Studio dashboard, you'll find a panel on the left side of the screen. Click on "Analytics" from this panel. Once you're in the Analytics section, you'll see a tab named "Advanced Mode" at the top of the page. Click on this tab. In the Advanced Mode, you'll find a section named "Where viewers are watching". Here, you can find the "Playback Locations" report which provides data about where your videos are being watched.

What does Playback Locations mean in YouTube analytics?

Playback Locations in YouTube analytics refers to the specific places or platforms where viewers are watching your videos. This could be directly on YouTube, on an embedded player on another website, or through YouTube's mobile app. This feature allows you to understand where your audience is coming from and how they are accessing your content.

The data from Playback Locations can provide valuable insights for content creators. For instance, if a significant portion of views are coming from embedded players on other websites, it might indicate that your content is being shared widely outside of YouTube. This could influence your content strategy, such as focusing on creating more shareable content. Conversely, if most views are coming directly from YouTube, it might suggest that your audience is primarily finding your content through YouTube's search or recommendation features.

Why is understanding Playback Locations important for YouTube channel growth?

Understanding Playback Locations is crucial for YouTube channel growth as it provides valuable insights into where your videos are being watched. This data can help you tailor your content and marketing strategies to reach your target audience more effectively. For instance, if a significant portion of views are coming from embedded links on other websites or social media platforms, it might be beneficial to focus on collaborations or partnerships with these platforms.

Moreover, knowing the playback locations can also help you understand the geographical distribution of your audience. If a large number of views are coming from a specific region or country, you might want to create content that resonates with that audience or even consider translating your videos into their language. Therefore, understanding Playback Locations can lead to more informed decisions, helping to increase viewer engagement and ultimately, channel growth.

If you create and edit videos...

You should try Tella.tv - a screen recorder that doesn't compromise on speed or creativity.

Tella simplifies video creation: record, customize, and share in one place; combine separate clips and quickly remove mistakes; apply beautiful backgrounds, layouts, and effects with just a few clicks; share the video link or export in 4K.

With Tella, create YouTube videos, tutorial videos, and online courses that look amazing in minutes, not hours!

Tella screen recorder

< Back to YouTube glossary

Try Tella today!

Screen recording for creators — simple and powerful.

7-day free trial — no credit card required