For years, YouTube was the lone platform offering social media creators a way to make money directly. But now social networks are trying to woo internet personalities with splashy creator funds, tipping, marketplaces to connect them with advertisers for deals, and even giving cash for using certain products like Instagram Reels.
That’s forcing YouTube to step up its own features. On Tuesday, the company released new ways to earn tips and announced a rare acquisition designed to attract viewers and influencers with social shopping.
