YouTube, the popular video-sharing platform owned by Google, has announced a significant change in its eligibility criteria for creators to access monetization tools under the YouTube Partner Program (YPP).

The company is expanding its shopping affiliate program to U.S.-based creators who are part of YPP and have amassed over 20,000 subscribers, opening up new avenues for content creators to monetize their channels.

Previously, the conditions for qualification were set at a minimum of 1,000 subscribers and either 4,000 watch hours in the past year or 10 million Shorts views in the last 90 days.

However, YouTube has now revised these requirements, making it easier for creators to qualify for the partner program and gain access to various monetization features.

Under the new guidelines, creators must have a minimum of 500 subscribers, along with either 3,000 watch hours in the past year or 3 million Shorts views in the last 90 days.

This move by YouTube aims to empower a wider range of content creators and provide them with increased opportunities for financial growth.

The updated eligibility criteria have raised excitement among creators, as they now have the chance to apply for the YPP and access tipping tools like Super Thanks, Super Chat, and Super Stickers.

In addition, they can utilize subscription tools such as channel memberships and promote their own merchandise through YouTube Shopping.

However, some concerns have been raised regarding the requirement of three public uploads within a 90-day period.

While this condition may pose a challenge for long-form video creators who may not have sufficient material to produce multiple videos within that timeframe, it is hoped that YouTube will consider further adjustments to accommodate diverse content creation styles.

This expansion of eligibility criteria is initially being implemented in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Taiwan, and South Korea.

YouTube plans to roll out the revised requirements to other countries where the YouTube Partner Program is available, presenting creators worldwide with the prospect of unlocking monetization opportunities.

Creators who meet the new threshold can now strive to achieve their goals and unlock the potential of their content.

By lowering the barriers to entry, YouTube aims to foster creativity and diversity within its platform while supporting content creators in their pursuit of success.