Last night, while waiting for my coffee, I scrolled through a few short videos. In two minutes, I'd caught up on a new tech launch, and a viral health tip. I didn't open a news app or read a full article. Does this sound familiar?

More and more of us are turning to short video platforms—like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts—for quick news updates. But what's driving this shift? And what does it mean for the future of journalism and for us as everyday news consumers? Let's dive in.

Why short videos are taking over news

It's no secret that our attention spans are getting shorter. A 2023 study suggests that the average online attention span is now just eight seconds. Short videos fit perfectly into this reality.

Here's why they work:

1. Instant access: We're busy. Watching a 60-second clip is easier than reading a 1,000-word article.

2. Visual impact: Videos can show events, faces, and emotions in ways text cannot.

3. Platform habits: Many of us already spend time on short video apps for entertainment. News content slips naturally into these feeds.

4. Algorithmic reach: Short videos are easily shared and recommended by platform algorithms, helping news go viral fast.

How traditional news outlets are adapting

At first, many traditional media companies hesitated to embrace short video platforms. But that's changing rapidly.

Leading outlets like BBC, CNN, and Reuters now have dedicated teams producing short, mobile-first video content. They're experimenting with formats like:

• Explainer videos on complex topics

• Quick updates on breaking news

• Behind-the-scenes footage from reporters

• Fact checks in short, shareable formats

Some newsrooms are even recruiting creators with experience in short-form video to engage younger audiences.

Opportunities and challenges

While the rise of short video news is exciting, it also brings new challenges—for both media professionals and us as consumers.

Opportunities:

• Broader reach: News can now engage people who might not seek it out otherwise.

• Faster updates: Short videos can deliver key information quickly during unfolding events.

• More engaging formats: Visual storytelling can make complex issues more understandable.

Challenges:

• Oversimplification: Important nuances can get lost in a 30-second clip.

• Misinformation risk: Short videos can spread unverified claims rapidly. A study by MIT Media Lab found false information spreads faster on social platforms than verified news.

• Source credibility: It's not always clear who is behind a news video or how reliable it is.

What do experts say?

According to Dr. Claire Wardle, co-founder of First Draft News and an expert in misinformation, “Short-form video is a double-edged sword. It's an incredible tool for reaching new audiences, but it also requires strong editorial standards to ensure accuracy.”

Meanwhile, the Reuters Institute Digital News Report 2024 highlights that younger audiences (especially 18- to 34-year-olds) now get over 40% of their news via video platforms—more than from traditional websites.

Tips for smart news watching

If you, like many of us, get news from short video platforms, here are a few tips to stay informed and savvy:

• Check the source: Follow videos from reputable news organizations or verified journalists.

• Cross-check: For major stories, consult multiple sources or read a full article for deeper understanding.

• Watch for signals: Be cautious of sensational headlines, lack of sourcing, or highly emotional content.

• Engage actively: Don't just swipe—ask questions and seek context when needed.

So, what's next for news delivery?

Short video platforms aren't replacing traditional journalism—but they are transforming how news reaches us. In the future, we'll likely see more hybrid models, where videos introduce stories and deeper text or interactive content provides full coverage.

For newsrooms, the challenge will be to balance speed, engagement, and accuracy. For us as viewers, it's about developing the media literacy skills to navigate this fast-moving space.

How do you consume news today?

Now, Lykkers—let's hear from you. Are short videos your main way of keeping up with the world? Or do you still enjoy reading full articles or watching long-form reports?

One thing is certain: the way we consume news is evolving rapidly. Staying curious and critical will help us all stay better informed in this fast, visual, and ever-changing media landscape.