Content Monetization
Ongoing coverage on Content Monetization.
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SteamDB changes hands to Nexus Mods, which means it 'needs to make money' now—but there won't be…
SteamDB, a popular site for tracking Steam game data and pricing, has been acquired by Nexus Mods. The site's founder, xPaw, cited burnout and a changing internet landscape as reasons for stepping down. Nexus Mods plans to monetize SteamDB to ensure its long-term viability, though they aim to avoid intrusive advertising and keep the core service free.
Executives from EA and Tencent to speak alongside Netflix, Sony, and Disney at FT Business of Entertainment summit
The Financial Times Business of Entertainment Summit in Los Angeles will feature executives from Electronic Arts and Tencent Games alongside leaders from Netflix, Sony Pictures, Disney, and TKO Group. The event in September will focus on the forces reshaping the entertainment industry, including media dealmaking, franchise ecosystems, AI, and content monetization.
YouTube is making it harder for creators to start getting a cut of ad revenue
YouTube is implementing stricter requirements for new partners to earn ad revenue. Creators will now need double the previous watch hours or Shorts views to qualify for a share of ad income.
X ends revenue sharing on September 8, replacing it with Original Content Rewards
X is replacing its revenue-sharing model with an Original Content Rewards program starting September 8th. To be eligible, creators need 500,000 impressions from verified users on their posts in the Home Timeline over the past 90 days, along with at least 500 verified followers. The new system aims to reward original content and penalize those who exploit the previous system.
YouTube explains its AI slop policy and why some creators won't get paid
YouTube has clarified its policies regarding AI-generated content, stating that such videos are permitted as long as they adhere to a specific set of rules. The platform also addressed creator concerns about payment for AI-generated content.
YouTube Is Now Letting Those Outside Of The US Donate Gifts On Livestreams
YouTube is expanding its 'Gifts' creator monetization tool to allow mobile viewers outside of the United States to send gifts during livestreams. This update aims to increase creator earnings by removing the previous limitation of only being able to donate via desktop. The feature is rolling out to markets including Canada, Korea, Indonesia, Thailand, Australia, and New Zealand, with more countries to follow.
X is changing its revenue-sharing policy to deter users pretending to be Americans
X is updating its revenue-sharing policy to prioritize engagement from a user's home region, according to Head of Product Nikita Bier. This change aims to encourage content relevant to local audiences and discourage users from gaming the system by pretending to be in the US or Japan. The new policy, effective March 26, 2026, will no longer send money overseas for content focused on American politics.