YouTube is shattering the status quo. Starting February 2027, the Partner Program entry bar doubles: you now need 8,000 watch hours or 20 million Shorts views.

Grandfathered? Accept new terms by January 31.

Shorts Shift: Maintain 10 million rolling views to keep earnings active. New Revenue: Premium Lite expands globally to boost your creator payout pool.

Adapt or perish.

Adapt or perish.