Paid streams count 1.5 times ad-supported as YouTube streaming data returns to Billboard charts, ending major disagreement | TechCrunch
A dispute over chart weights
YouTube announced Monday that it would return its streaming data to Billboard in 2027. The move follows a revision to Billboard’s formula that gives ad-supported streams more weight.
In December 2025, YouTube said it would stop sharing data, arguing that the formula favored paid subscriptions and undervalued fans listening free with ads. Lyor Cohen, YouTube’s global head of music, said the system did not reflect current listening habits.
How the formula changed
Under the former formula, 1,000 paid streams counted equally with 2,500 ad-supported streams. YouTube said that gave too much importance to paid listening, even as many fans use free streaming to discover and support artists.
The revised formula makes 1,000 paid streams equivalent to 1,500 ad-supported streams when calculating album consumption units. Paid listening still carries greater weight, but ad-supported activity now has a larger effect on chart positions.
What the return could mean
YouTube’s data may affect artists whose audiences include independent musicians and large international fan bases. Music videos, live performances, lyric videos and other platform content can help artists find new listeners.
Key points
- YouTube plans to resume sharing streaming data with Billboard in 2027.
- The updated formula equates 1,000 paid streams with 1,500 ad-supported streams.
- The previous formula equated 1,000 paid streams with 2,500 ad-supported streams.
- YouTube’s return could bring more activity from videos and other content into chart calculations.