While it has been shown that the human attention span in our generation is less than that of a goldfish, it should be taken as a sense of accomplishment that our generation is starting to be entertained with long-form content. That is, content that typically exceeds 10 minutes and offers in-depth storytelling, detailed insights, and comprehensive discussions, over short-form). When I read up on this, I didn’t believe it either, especially since I myself have been a victim of only watching short-form content (TikToks, Instagram Reels, etc.) more and more. But sure enough, long-form content is making a comeback.
While short-form content has dominated social media for years, viewers are now seeking more depth and context in what they watch. While some may argue this is a fleeting moment, I believe this “trend” is a change in how people want to connect with content. 53% of Gen-Z are using social media to watch news, tutorials, and even movies, reinforcing its value beyond a passing trend.
Not only that, but creator-led podcasts have seen a sharp rise in popularity in recent years, with viewers/listeners consuming over 400 million hours of podcasts per month on YouTube. On Spotify alone, more than 250 million users streamed video podcasts within only the first five months of the year. In fact, TikTok, the platform that gained worldwide success for its known quick and easy scrolls, has had to adapt to this new generational attitude of long-form content. In 2022, TikTok allowed creators to upload up to 10-minute videos. Now, in 2025, the length of an uploaded video can be up to 60 minutes! These results underline a strong shift in preference for longer and more in-depth content.
If we look at some examples of successful long-form content, MrBeast, YouTube’s largest content creator, has over 440 million subscribers and produces videos that average around 20 minutes in length. Similarly, Ryan Trahan, a successful YouTuber and entrepreneur, has amassed millions of views on videos such as “I Visited 50 States in 50 Days.” These examples demonstrate that the quality and engagement of the content matter more than its length. Clearly, audiences are seeking interesting and well-crafted content, rather than short, repetitive videos with stale material.
Although short-form still leads, the growing appetite for authentic, informative, and engaging content indicates the change could be long-term. Personally, I believe we are going in the right direction. Short-form content, unfortunately, runs the risk of oversimplification or not including needed context, especially if the videos presented are some that help build or formulate opinions on serious topics. With long-form content, not only are individuals exercising their attention span, but more clarity and depth are provided, so people can get the whole picture and are better educated.
Recently, I find myself listening to podcasts or playing videos in the background as I am driving, working out, or finishing up chores. In my opinion, I love long-form content, and I’m happy that it is making a comeback. With long and tedious tasks to do, I wouldn’t be able to enjoy them the same without my favorite one-hour podcasts. Short-form content demands all of your attention, and most of the time, I can’t even remember what I just watched, even when I was scrolling for hours.
The resurgence of long-form content represents a meaningful shift in how our generation consumes and values media. As audiences increasingly seek depth, context, and authentic storytelling, both viewers and creators benefit. This expansion is giving our generation the space to think, learn, and connect like never before.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.