Sarah Perez wrote an article on a study that Google initiated which measured YouTube’s influence on what toys were being advertised and purchased.
It is no question that YouTube has a power of influence, a video archive that has become not only a major hub of entertainment but of income for many YouTube stars. YouTube stars are known for not only vlogging their lives, but opinions. Many “vloggers” upload clothing hauls, makeup tutorials, and lifestyle hacks. Another popular upload for vloggers right now is filming the opening of new toys. This is where google comes in.
Perez states, “According to the search giant, (Google) at least four of the top 10 most searched toys were among those heavily featured in YouTube unboxing videos — subsequently turning them into the most in-demand and best-selling toys of the holiday season.” YouTube is being seen now as a more powerful tool in advertising and the sharing of information than television. The medium of video, paired with comments, likes, and subscriptions – allows for a more interactive and accessible platform. Google’s search engine serves as a review finder – and instead of reading comments, viewers can now hop onto YouTube and see toys visually. The toy unboxing video of the most sold toy “L.O.L Surprise” is what made Google look into their numbers. The L.O.L Surprise toy made it onto Amazon’s “Top 10 List of Best Selling Toys” Not only is visually watching a toy be used and hear people’s opinions on its quality beneficial. The power of YouTube videos being accessible any time rather than on a certain channel at a certain time of day – makes for the perfect advertising tool.
Perez, Sarah, and Sarah Perez. “Google’s Search Data Shows YouTube’s Influence over This Season’s Hottest Toys.” TechCrunch. TechCrunch, December 10, 2018. https://techcrunch.com/2018/12/10/googles-search-data-shows-youtubes-influence-over-this-seasons-hottest-toys/.
