What counts as a video view, and what kind of viewing time do creators need to achieve in order to increase their video view statistics?
These are the questions that have been answered by recent reports shared by social media platforms, acknowledging the simple fact that what counts as a “view” differs from one platform to the next.
What Counts As a Video View?
On Instagram, a video is classed as being “viewed” as soon as the video starts playing.
On TikTok, the timing is similar – with instant acknowledgment of a video having been viewed when it starts playing.
On apps like LinkedIn, Pinterest, and even Spotify, however, a video or clip is only classed as being “viewed” after a few seconds have passed.
In short, accurate data is very hard to quantify – with both Instagram and TikTok’s approach meaning that your view count may be high but with little to no engagement.Â
Is View Count a Good Goal for Growth?
With Instagram and TikTok both acknowledging a video as being “viewed” as soon as the playback starts, even if the user immediately scrolls away, this isn’t the best way to measure genuine engagement and growth.
While achieving or buying blocks of views can boost the visibility of videos, likes and follows remain the goals that have the biggest impact on genuine and sustainable growth!
