Mobile Users in Russia Face YouTube Slowdowns: Impact on Traffic and Future Prospects
Russian mobile users have recently reported significant issues with accessing YouTube, following a series of complaints regarding slowdowns on landline Internet. According to RBC, industry sources have pointed out potential long-term challenges for the popular video-sharing platform in the country.
On December 19, the service Sboy.rf recorded a noticeable surge in complaints about YouTube’s performance, particularly for mobile users. The reports highlighted a “serious, but not yet complete” slowdown of the service. Some sources even speculated that the platform might face a potential block in Russia. However, Google’s press service clarified that these access issues were not due to any technical difficulties on their end.
To gain insight into how these issues might affect YouTube’s popularity, Business FM consulted Alexey Pak, founder of the Purple Door advertising and production agency. Pak suggested that while YouTube may retain its appeal among younger users, older generations could shift to alternative platforms like Rutube or VK Video due to the inconvenience caused by slowdowns. “YouTube as a platform will remain,” Pak stated, but highlighted that its audience composition could shift.
Recent data from CDN Video’s autumn report revealed a significant change in Russian video platform traffic between August and September. YouTube traffic saw a 50% decline, while Russian alternatives such as Rutube and VK Video experienced impressive growth of 43.8% and 35%, respectively. Notably, these statistics reflect only direct connections and do not account for users accessing YouTube through VPNs or other workarounds.
As the situation evolves, it remains to be seen how YouTube’s user base in Russia will adjust to these ongoing challenges and what this could mean for the platform’s future in the country.