Decline in Traditional TV Viewing Across All Age Groups
Figures indicate that S4C's television viewing numbers have decreased in 2025–26 compared to the previous year across every age group.
Significant Growth in Social Media Engagement
Conversely, the number of viewers engaging with S4C content on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok has increased by 83%, reaching 35.6 million interactions.
These statistics were released alongside the channel's annual report, which highlights that S4C's streaming hours have reached an all-time high.
Strategic Digital Transformation Plans
Geraint Evans, Chief Executive Officer of S4C, stated that the organization has "outlined ambitious plans for the next five years as we transition to being a digital-first broadcaster," adding that the figures "demonstrate that we are already making good progress."
"The figures show we are making good progress," said Geraint Evans, Chief Executive.
Shifts in Viewing Habits and Industry Trends
In assessing performance within the report, S4C notes that "the number of viewers on the linear service is decreasing as viewing habits shift towards digital platforms."
The organization acknowledges that this trend is consistent with that of all public service broadcasters.
"S4C's share of viewing remains below the level we aim for.
In an environment where total channel viewing is declining across the industry, our ambition is to outperform other broadcasters and capture a larger share of the remaining viewing.
We are focused on retaining our audience by offering engaging and distinctive content, and on growing our digital viewing."
Importance of Adapting to New Viewing Habits
Despite the decrease in traditional viewing, Geraint Evans emphasized that the increase in streaming hours and engagement across digital platforms "underlines the importance of adapting to new viewing habits and demonstrates S4C's role in making the Welsh language relevant and viable across multiple viewing platforms."
Chair's Positive Remarks on Digital Growth
Delyth Evans, Chair of the S4C Board, expressed her pleasure in "sharing the first annual report since my appointment as Chair of S4C."
She added, "I am particularly proud to see the significant progress we are making in the digital arena."
"As a public service broadcaster, it is our duty to serve our viewers and be present where they watch," said Ms Evans.
"S4C's digital growth shows a clear demand for our content and that our viewers are eager for more.
I am grateful to S4C staff and the production sector in Wales for embracing the opportunities that digital-first broadcasting offers and for ensuring that S4C reaches new audiences and expands viewing with its content."
Social Media Account Growth and Engagement
Regarding social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, monthly engagement across these three platforms has increased by 47%, reaching 1.39 million.
Digital viewing among Welsh learners has also risen, with S4C's Welsh Learning social media accounts growing by more than 50% during the year, and follower numbers more than doubling in the same period.
Weekly users of the S4C News app have also increased.
Notable Programming Highlights in 2025-26
Among the highlights of S4C's content in 2025-26, according to the report, were the programs Y Cyfweliad, Y Crwydryn, the second series of Y Llais, and Amour & Mynydd.
Further Information and Contact
Follow Cymru Fyw on Facebook, X, Instagram, or TikTok.
Send any story ideas to cymrufyw@bbc.co.uk or contact via WhatsApp at 07709850033.
for the latest news from Wales on your mobile device.
Relevant Stories
- Senedd Cymru to have formal role in appointing future S4C Chair
- S4C appoints Geraint Evans as new Chief Executive
- BBC withdraws from producing Clwb Rygbi for S4C
