The query encapsulates an inquiry into an individual’s continued engagement with the video-sharing platform. An example of its use might be a friend asking, “Are you still watching YouTube, or have you found something else to occupy your time?”. The phrase suggests a duration of engagement and seeks to ascertain its persistence.
Understanding audience retention and platform loyalty are key benefits to analyzing searches containing such terms. It provides insights into shifting entertainment preferences, the effectiveness of YouTube’s content strategy, and the influence of competing platforms. Historically, the phrasing reflects an evolution in media consumption from traditional television to online video, indicating a potential dependence on or habitual use of the service.
Subsequent discussion will delve into various aspects of video consumption habits, the competitive landscape of online video platforms, and strategies for maintaining audience engagement in an evolving digital environment. The factors influencing sustained viewership and alternative entertainment options will also be explored.
1. Habitual consumption patterns
Habitual consumption patterns represent a significant factor influencing an individual’s continued engagement with YouTube. These ingrained behaviors, developed over time, contribute substantially to the sustained viewing reflected in the query “are you still watching youtube”.
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Scheduled Viewing
Scheduled viewing refers to the practice of watching YouTube content at specific times, transforming it into a routine. For example, consistently watching a daily news show or a weekly vlog creates an expectation and inclination to return to the platform. Such routines solidify platform dependency. The question “are you still watching youtube” in this scenario implies observing the continuity of this established schedule.
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Content Cravings
Certain types of content induce habitual consumption through psychological mechanisms akin to cravings. Unscripted content, such as gaming streams or reaction videos, offers continuous novelty and can be highly engaging. Seeking this ongoing stream can make YouTube an automatic choice during leisure time. Thus, “are you still watching youtube” might indicate an observer questioning if the user is still satisfying that content craving.
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Automatic Playback
YouTube’s autoplay feature reinforces habitual consumption. The system automatically initiates a new video upon completion of the previous one, often based on algorithmic recommendations. This constant stream of content minimizes conscious decision-making, facilitating prolonged viewership. If the observer thinks that the user relies on autoplay to make video choice, they might wonder “are you still watching youtube” in the way we expected?
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Mobile Accessibility
The ubiquity of mobile devices and readily available internet connectivity strengthens habitual consumption. YouTube’s accessibility on smartphones and tablets allows for seamless integration into daily life, facilitating quick access during commutes, breaks, or downtime. The query “are you still watching youtube” can reference the accessibility that they can watch youtube anywhere and anytime.
These facets of habitual consumption patterns highlight the powerful influence of routines, cravings, and accessibility on sustained viewership. The query “are you still watching youtube” implicitly acknowledges these ingrained habits and questions their ongoing presence in an individual’s daily life, demonstrating the platform’s success at integrating itself into the daily lives of viewers.
2. Content relevance perceived
Content relevance, as perceived by the user, exerts a direct influence on sustained engagement with YouTube. When content aligns with an individual’s interests, needs, or current state of mind, continued viewership is more probable. The question “are you still watching youtube” implies a consideration of whether the user continues to find the content offered valuable and pertinent. If relevance diminishes, users are likely to discontinue engagement, seeking alternative platforms or activities.
The absence of perceived relevance acts as a primary driver for viewer attrition. Examples include a subscriber ceasing to watch a channel when its content deviates significantly from its original focus or a user abandoning a tutorial series that fails to deliver practical solutions to their problems. Inversely, if someone is continually interested in cars, any car-related content on youtube would have much value and they will enjoy watching it more. These actions provide tangible illustrations of the direct correlation between perceived relevance and continued engagement. Consequently, understanding a user’s evolving needs and preferences becomes crucial for content creators and platform strategists aiming to retain viewers. Algorithms that surface irrelevant or outdated material contribute to reduced viewership.
In summation, the perceived relevance of content forms a cornerstone of sustained YouTube viewership. The inquiry “are you still watching youtube” carries an inherent assessment of this content’s ongoing value and applicability to the individual. Addressing the dynamics of perceived relevance requires a continuous process of content adaptation, algorithmic refinement, and audience feedback integration. Prioritizing relevant content delivery represents a critical challenge, but its resolution directly impacts platform engagement and long-term success.
3. Competing platform influence
The presence and increasing sophistication of rival video platforms directly influence viewership habits on YouTube. The question “are you still watching youtube” reflects a tacit awareness of alternative options vying for users’ attention and time. The strength of these competing platforms affects YouTube’s audience retention rates and shapes user behavior. Therefore, assessing the impact of alternative streaming services is essential to understanding continued YouTube engagement.
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Rise of Short-Form Video Platforms
Platforms specializing in short-form video content, such as TikTok and Instagram Reels, present a distinct challenge. These platforms cater to shorter attention spans and offer easily digestible content. An individual drawn to quick, entertaining clips might reduce their YouTube viewing time, impacting long-form video consumption. The query “are you still watching youtube” can indicate awareness of this shift towards shorter formats and a question whether the user has switched to such alternative platforms.
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Emergence of Streaming Services
Subscription-based streaming services, including Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video, provide professionally produced films and television series. These services attract viewers seeking high-quality, structured narratives. A user deeply invested in a series on a different streaming service may decrease their time spent on YouTube. In this context, “are you still watching youtube” might stem from the observer’s realization that the user’s time is now committed to these premium services.
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Growth of Live Streaming Platforms
Platforms like Twitch cater to live streaming, particularly within the gaming community. Interactive live content fosters a sense of community and immediate engagement. Someone actively participating in a Twitch stream might have less time for pre-recorded YouTube content. The phrase “are you still watching youtube” implies a recognition of the growing appeal and community aspect of live streaming as a substitute for YouTubes on-demand content.
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Niche Video Platforms
Platforms specializing in niche content, such as educational tutorials (Skillshare) or independent films (Vimeo), cater to specific user interests. A user intensely focused on mastering a particular skill through a dedicated platform might reduce their overall YouTube usage. Therefore, “are you still watching youtube” can be a query that comes from the growing amount of choices from other platform.
These competing platforms exert considerable influence on YouTube viewership. The availability of alternative content formats, structured narratives, interactive live streams, and specialized niche content all contribute to potential shifts in user behavior. The query “are you still watching youtube” highlights the ever-present awareness of these alternatives and their impact on individual viewing habits within the evolving digital media landscape.
4. Changing user preferences
Shifting user preferences directly impact sustained engagement with YouTube, framing the relevance of the inquiry, “are you still watching youtube”. As individual tastes evolve, the likelihood of continuous platform usage hinges on YouTube’s ability to adapt and provide content that aligns with these emerging preferences.
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Format Preference Evolution
User preference for different video formats, such as long-form narratives, short-form clips, live streams, or interactive content, influences platform selection. A growing preference for shorter, easily digestible content may lead viewers to platforms like TikTok, affecting YouTube viewership. The question “are you still watching youtube” therefore, implies a recognition that the user may prefer other formats.
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Genre and Topic Shifts
Changes in preferred content genres or topics can lead to shifts in viewing habits. An individual’s interest in a specific niche, like technology reviews or cooking tutorials, may wane over time, prompting them to seek alternative content sources. The inquiry “are you still watching youtube” assesses whether the content still fulfills a user’s changing subject matter interests.
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Consumption Modality Alterations
Alterations in consumption modality, such as a shift from passive viewing to active participation through interactive content or community features, influence platform engagement. Users seeking more interactive experiences might migrate to platforms offering live Q&A sessions or direct creator engagement. Question of “are you still watching youtube” is relevant in a context with a recognition of change in the way the user like to interact with media.
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Quality Expectation Changes
As production quality across various platforms improves, user expectations for content quality rise. Viewers may become less tolerant of low-resolution videos or poorly edited content, potentially leading them to alternative platforms with higher production standards. Therefore “are you still watching youtube” comes with assumption that the user has lower tolerance to content quality.
These dynamic shifts in user preferences collectively determine the longevity of engagement with YouTube. The query “are you still watching youtube” captures an inherent awareness of these potential changes, highlighting the necessity for content creators and the platform itself to remain responsive to evolving user needs and expectations. Failure to address these evolving preferences inevitably results in decreased viewership and migration to alternative platforms that better cater to current user demands.
5. Algorithmic Recommendations’ Impact
Algorithmic recommendations significantly influence continued engagement with YouTube. The query “are you still watching youtube” inherently reflects the impact of these algorithms on shaping user viewing habits and determining platform loyalty.
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Personalized Content Discovery
Algorithms curate content based on viewing history, search queries, and demographic data. This personalization aims to surface relevant videos, increasing the likelihood of sustained viewership. For example, a user consistently watching science documentaries might receive recommendations for similar content, reinforcing their engagement. Therefore, “are you still watching youtube” implies an assessment of whether the algorithm continues to provide relevant content.
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Filter Bubble Formation
Algorithms can inadvertently create filter bubbles by exclusively recommending content that aligns with existing viewpoints. While this may increase short-term engagement, it can limit exposure to diverse perspectives. Users might become trapped in a cycle of similar content, potentially leading to boredom or a desire for alternative platforms. The phrase “are you still watching youtube” could signify a concern about the user’s exposure to a limited range of viewpoints.
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“Rabbit Hole” Phenomenon
Algorithms can lead users down “rabbit holes,” where a series of increasingly extreme or niche videos are recommended. This can result in prolonged viewing sessions, but also expose individuals to potentially harmful content. The question “are you still watching youtube” might indicate a worry about the type of content the algorithm is presenting to the user.
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Erosion of Intentionality
The constant stream of algorithmically suggested content can erode intentionality in viewing habits. Users may passively consume recommended videos without actively seeking specific content. This can result in prolonged engagement with the platform, but it might also lead to a sense of time wasted or unfulfilled information needs. Question of “are you still watching youtube” can be about whether the algorithm impacts their intentional browsing.
The facets above highlight the complex relationship between algorithmic recommendations and continued YouTube viewership. While personalized recommendations can enhance content discovery and increase engagement, they also pose risks, such as filter bubble formation, exposure to harmful content, and erosion of intentionality. The query “are you still watching youtube” implicitly acknowledges the power of these algorithms in shaping individual viewing habits and underscores the importance of critical engagement with algorithmically curated content.
6. Evolving entertainment needs
Evolving entertainment needs directly influence continued engagement with YouTube. As individual preferences and societal trends shift, the demand for specific types of content changes, affecting the relevance of YouTube as a primary entertainment source. The question “are you still watching youtube” often stems from the recognition that an individual’s entertainment requirements may no longer be adequately met by the platform.
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Demand for Interactive Experiences
Increasingly, individuals seek interactive entertainment experiences that transcend passive viewership. This includes participation in live streams, interactive narratives, and community-driven content. If YouTube fails to provide sufficient opportunities for active involvement, users may migrate to platforms offering more engaging and immersive experiences. “Are you still watching youtube” can imply they are looking for alternative interactive platforms.
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Preference for Personalized Content
Modern entertainment consumers expect highly personalized content tailored to their specific interests and preferences. Generic or broadly appealing content is less likely to maintain sustained engagement. If YouTube’s algorithmic recommendations fail to accurately reflect individual tastes, users may seek platforms with more precise personalization capabilities. The value of asking “are you still watching youtube” can depend on how the algorithm impacts this customization to user needs.
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Desire for Authenticity and Transparency
Consumers increasingly value authenticity and transparency in entertainment. They seek content creators and platforms that are perceived as genuine and trustworthy. Any perceived lack of authenticity or transparency on YouTube can erode user trust, leading to decreased engagement. A question of “are you still watching youtube” may concern the genuineness of YouTube content they engage with.
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Emphasis on Short-Form Content
The proliferation of short-form video platforms has cultivated a preference for concise, easily digestible content. Individuals with limited time or attention spans may favor platforms like TikTok over YouTube’s longer-form videos. A viewer who have tendency for short-content might not be suitable for youtube with the query “are you still watching youtube” can be a question.
These facets highlight the dynamic nature of entertainment needs and their impact on YouTube viewership. The query “are you still watching youtube” underscores the importance for content creators and the platform to continuously adapt to evolving preferences. Failing to meet these evolving needs inevitably results in decreased engagement and a shift towards alternative entertainment sources.
7. Time investment assessment
The inquiry “are you still watching youtube” frequently reflects an implicit time investment assessment. Viewers consciously or subconsciously evaluate the value derived from time spent on the platform. This assessment encompasses the perceived utility of the content, the level of enjoyment experienced, and the opportunity cost of engaging with YouTube instead of other activities. For example, if an individual believes that an hour spent watching educational videos on YouTube will improve professional skills, the time investment is deemed worthwhile. Conversely, if that same hour is perceived as unproductive and lacking in value, the user is less likely to continue watching. If a friend is working on their professional skills and another friend asks the first one “are you still watching youtube”, it can be related to the value of improving professional skills.
Time investment assessments are particularly salient in the context of competing platforms. Individuals continuously weigh the benefits of spending time on YouTube against the potential benefits offered by other streaming services, social media platforms, or offline activities. If an individual finds that another platform provides more engaging, informative, or entertaining content per unit of time, they may shift their attention accordingly. A student using a variety of different media, then asking “are you still watching youtube” would come from a point of choosing which media to consume depending on its value. Therefore the importance of “Time investment assessment” is to determine which one delivers better content.
In summary, time investment assessment forms a crucial component of the decision-making process underlying continued YouTube viewership. The question “are you still watching youtube” implies a consideration of the perceived value and opportunity cost associated with engaging with the platform. As individuals increasingly scrutinize how they allocate their time, content creators and platform strategists must prioritize delivering high-quality, engaging content that justifies the time investment made by viewers. Neglecting this time assessment would lead to decreased engagement and migration to alternative platforms that offer a better return on investment.
8. Content creator loyalty
Content creator loyalty represents a significant factor influencing the response to the query “are you still watching youtube.” The extent to which viewers maintain allegiance to specific creators directly affects their sustained engagement with the platform. A strong bond between viewer and creator can counteract the influence of competing platforms, algorithm changes, and evolving entertainment preferences.
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Consistency of Content
Content creators who consistently deliver content aligned with viewer expectations cultivate strong loyalty. This consistency encompasses genre, style, and upload frequency. When a creator deviates significantly from established norms, viewers may question their commitment and explore alternative channels. The query “are you still watching youtube” in this scenario indicates a possible disconnect between a creator’s output and a viewer’s established expectations.
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Community Engagement
Creators who actively engage with their audience, responding to comments, hosting Q&A sessions, and soliciting feedback, foster a sense of community. This heightened engagement strengthens viewer loyalty, making them less susceptible to external influences. The query “are you still watching youtube” may arise less frequently among viewers who feel a strong connection to a creator’s community.
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Authenticity and Transparency
Viewers value authenticity and transparency in content creators. Creators who are perceived as genuine and honest tend to cultivate stronger loyalty. Conversely, any perceived lack of authenticity or transparency can erode trust and prompt viewers to seek alternative creators. The question “are you still watching youtube” could indicate that the observer thinks the user is questioning the authenticity and transparency of their subscribed creators.
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Creator-Viewer Relationship Duration
The length of time a viewer has followed a particular creator contributes to loyalty. Over time, a stronger sense of connection and investment develops. Viewers who have followed a creator for years are often more forgiving of occasional missteps and more likely to remain engaged despite fluctuations in content quality. Someone who is loyal to content creator for a long time may also be watching YouTube for a long time, and someone may ask “are you still watching youtube”.
The interplay between these facets underscores the critical role of content creator loyalty in sustaining YouTube viewership. The question “are you still watching youtube” often reflects an assessment of the strength of this loyalty bond. Creators who prioritize consistency, community engagement, authenticity, and long-term relationship building are better positioned to retain viewers and ensure continued engagement with the platform.
9. Alternative activities appeal
The appeal of alternative activities directly influences continued viewership on YouTube, forming a critical component of the implicit inquiry, “are you still watching youtube.” The availability and attractiveness of alternative pursuits, both online and offline, significantly impact an individual’s decision to allocate time to YouTube.
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Engagement with Social Media Platforms
The pervasive presence of social media platforms presents a compelling alternative to YouTube. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter offer diverse content formats, immediate social interaction, and opportunities for self-expression. An individual seeking social connection or real-time updates might favor social media, diminishing YouTube viewership. The question “are you still watching youtube” may suggest a shift in engagement from passive video consumption to active social participation.
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Participation in Gaming Activities
Video games offer immersive and interactive experiences that can divert attention from YouTube. The increasing sophistication and accessibility of gaming, coupled with the social aspect of multiplayer games, provide a strong alternative for individuals seeking entertainment and engagement. The query “are you still watching youtube” might reflect awareness of a user’s increased investment in gaming activities.
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Engagement in Educational Pursuits
Individuals engaged in educational pursuits, whether formal academic studies or self-directed learning, may prioritize activities that directly contribute to their educational goals. Reading books, attending online courses, or participating in workshops may take precedence over watching YouTube videos. The inquiry “are you still watching youtube” can indicate that the observer know the user is engaging in more valuable activities.
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Involvement in Hobbies and Interests
Active participation in hobbies and interests, such as sports, music, art, or outdoor activities, provides a tangible alternative to passive video consumption. Individuals who are deeply involved in their hobbies often allocate significant time and energy to these pursuits, reducing their available time for YouTube. Therefore, “are you still watching youtube” might express the desire to know if the user still has leisure time to watch YouTube as they spend time on their hobbies.
These alternative activities collectively exert a significant influence on YouTube viewership. The question “are you still watching youtube” inherently acknowledges the appeal of these alternatives and their potential to displace YouTube as a primary source of entertainment, education, or social connection. The balance of the equation relies on user to assess whether watching YouTube content is more important than other engagements.
Frequently Asked Questions about Continued YouTube Viewership
This section addresses common inquiries related to sustained engagement with the YouTube platform and factors influencing viewing habits.
Question 1: What key elements determine continued viewership on YouTube?
Sustained engagement with YouTube hinges on habitual consumption patterns, perceived content relevance, competing platform influence, evolving user preferences, algorithmic recommendation impact, evolving entertainment needs, time investment assessment, content creator loyalty, and alternative activity appeal.
Question 2: How do viewing habits affect whether a person will continue to watch YouTube?
Ingrained routines, content cravings, and automatic playback features, reinforced by mobile accessibility, significantly contribute to the continued viewership associated with established viewing habits.
Question 3: How important is content relevance to maintaining engagement on YouTube?
Content relevance, as perceived by the user, directly influences engagement. Continued viewership relies on the alignment of content with individual interests, needs, or current states of mind. Absence of perceived relevance can reduce viewing duration.
Question 4: In what ways do competing platforms affect YouTube viewership?
Rival platforms, including those specializing in short-form video, streaming services, live streaming, and niche content, vie for user attention. The presence and sophistication of these alternatives influence YouTube’s audience retention and shape user behavior.
Question 5: How do algorithmic recommendations impact viewing habits on YouTube?
Algorithms personalize content discovery, but also create filter bubbles, lead to “rabbit hole” experiences, and erode intentionality in viewing habits. These factors shape user engagement and influence platform loyalty.
Question 6: Why is it important to address evolving entertainment needs for YouTubes success?
To maintain engagement, its important for platform and content creators to evolve to meet new expectations. Failing to meet these evolving needs diminishes viewership and encourages migration to platforms that better serve current user demands.
Understanding these factors is crucial for both content creators and the platform itself in maintaining a loyal audience in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
The next section will explore strategies for content creators to foster stronger viewer relationships.
Strategies for Content Retention Based on “Are You Still Watching YouTube” Analysis
The following strategies aim to improve viewer retention on the YouTube platform by addressing key factors that influence continued engagement, as informed by analysis of the search query “are you still watching youtube”.
Tip 1: Reinforce Habitual Viewing: Establish a consistent upload schedule. Regular uploads create anticipation and integrate viewing into the user’s routine. For example, posting a new video every Tuesday and Friday encourages viewers to anticipate and schedule their viewing time accordingly.
Tip 2: Maximize Content Relevance: Conduct audience research to understand evolving interests. Use surveys, comment analysis, and social media interactions to identify trending topics and address viewer needs. Tailor content to directly respond to identified needs.
Tip 3: Differentiate from Competing Platforms: Identify the unique value proposition of your channel. Emphasize aspects that distinguish your content from alternatives on platforms like TikTok or Netflix. Offer in-depth analysis, specialized tutorials, or unique perspectives not readily available elsewhere.
Tip 4: Adapt to Shifting Preferences: Experiment with various video formats. Incorporate short-form clips, live streams, and interactive elements into your content strategy. Analyze viewer response to different formats to refine your approach. For example, offer short teaser clips on Instagram to drive traffic to longer YouTube videos.
Tip 5: Optimize Algorithmic Performance: Employ effective SEO techniques. Use relevant keywords in titles, descriptions, and tags to improve discoverability. Encourage viewer engagement through likes, comments, and shares, as these metrics influence algorithmic ranking.
Tip 6: Cultivate Creator Loyalty: Foster a strong sense of community. Respond to viewer comments, conduct live Q&A sessions, and solicit feedback on future content. Building a personal connection strengthens viewer loyalty.
Tip 7: Emphasize Efficient Time Investment: Create high-value, concise content. Respect viewer time by delivering information effectively and avoiding unnecessary filler. Optimize video editing and pacing to maintain engagement throughout the viewing experience.
Implementing these strategies, grounded in the insights gleaned from analyzing “are you still watching youtube”, enables content creators to enhance viewer retention, cultivate audience loyalty, and maintain a sustainable presence within the competitive video landscape.
The article will now move to its conclusion by summarizing the main points covered.
Conclusion
The preceding analysis elucidated the multifaceted factors influencing sustained engagement with the YouTube platform, sparked by the central question “are you still watching youtube”. Consideration of habitual consumption, content relevance, competitive dynamics, evolving user preferences, algorithmic impact, time investment, and creator loyalty reveals a complex interplay shaping individual viewing habits. The ongoing relevance of YouTube hinges on its ability to adapt, innovate, and cater to the evolving needs of a diverse audience.
The continued prevalence of the query “are you still watching youtube” underscores the need for ongoing critical evaluation of platform engagement. As the digital landscape shifts and alternative entertainment options proliferate, content creators and platform strategists must prioritize audience understanding, content innovation, and ethical algorithmic practices to ensure the enduring value and relevance of YouTube in a rapidly changing world.
