The Shift to Vertical Content: Engaging Fans Across Platforms

Quick Summary:
Mobile is the primary screen, so vertical 9:16 video now drives reach and retention across TikTok, Reels, YouTube Shorts and OTT apps. Auto-framing and mobile-first editing turn live feeds into platform-ready clips that fill the screen, boost watch time and lift brand recall.

A New Wave for Sports Viewing Worldwide

Picture fans in Brazil watching soccer or viewers in Japan tuning into baseball, all on their phones held upright. As sports consumption habits evolve, vertical video formats are transforming how broadcasters and OTT platforms connect with audiences. With mobile devices now the top screen for millions across continents, adapting to this vertical trend is key to boosting engagement and reach. In fact, more than 75% of all video content is expected to be viewed on mobile devices in 2025, putting vertical at the center of this movement.

Why Vertical Video Captures Attention

Vertical videos are not just a fad. They are backed by how people watch today. Here's why they are essential:

• Mobile-First World: Fans naturally hold phones vertically, and platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts thrive with 9:16 video. No rotation needed means a smoother experience for viewers in North America, Europe and beyond. Vertical videos achieve a 90% brand recall rate compared to 69% for horizontal videos.

• Boosted Interaction: Vertical videos fill more screen space, leading to longer viewing times, more shares and better brand recognition. They boast higher watch-through rates and get more interactions on social media, making them the go-to format for viral sports moments.

• Platform Flexibility: Whether it is short-form highlights, player interviews, or behind-the-scenes clips, vertical video fits seamlessly into OTT apps and global social networks. Even more video marketers will prioritize 9:16 formats in 2025.

Mastering Vertical Content with Smart Tools

Innovative tools empower broadcasters and OTT providers to:

• Generate vertical highlights automatically from live feeds, delivering rapid real-time sports clips for social platforms and apps worldwide.

• Keep broadcast quality intact while tailoring videos for mobile screens, ensuring excitement reaches fans everywhere.

• Share content effortlessly across major platforms, from local OTT services to global networks, enhancing reach and revenue potential amid rising mobile dominance.

Strategic Visuals for Global Impact

Place the first image at the top to grab attention instantly, showing the vertical advantage with a soccer highlight that resonates with fans globally.

Add the second image beside the technology section to highlight how production teams adapt, connecting the tool’s role to real-world success across regions.

How to Get Started with Vertical Content

Ready to make the shift? Here is a simple step-by-step guide, backed by industry benchmarks:

1. Assess Your Content: Review current horizontal videos and identify high-engagement moments like goals or plays that could convert well to vertical. Aim for clips under 60 seconds to capitalize on short-form trends, where retention can hit 95% versus 10% for text.

2. Choose Tools: Opt for platforms that automate reframing from live feeds, supporting 9:16 ratios and integrations with social APIs. Ensure they handle multi-language captions for global reach.

3. Test and Optimize: Launch pilots on TikTok or Reels, tracking metrics like views and shares with tools like Google Analytics. Expect 20-30% higher interaction rates based on vertical's proven edge.

4. Scale and Measure: Expand to OTT apps, monitoring revenue from increased ad views or sponsorships. Target 80% video traffic dominance by aligning with 2025 forecasts.

Explore This Trend on Our Site

As mobile viewing dominates sports worldwide, with Gen Z leading the charge where platforms like TikTok are top for 64% of users, embracing vertical content positions broadcasters and OTT services as leaders. This trend offers immersive, platform-ready experiences that meet fans where they are, from bustling cities to rural areas. Dive deeper into strategies and updates right here on our website!