Core Viewpoint - The popularity of micro-short dramas is on the rise, with significant user engagement and changing viewing habits across different demographics and regions [4][5][6]. User Engagement and Demographics - As of December 2024, the number of micro-short drama viewers reached 662 million, with an average daily usage time of 101 minutes per user on dedicated apps [4]. - The user base is primarily concentrated in lower-tier cities, with 65.1% of users from tier three and below, and the largest age groups being 50 years and older, and 30-39 years old [10]. - A survey indicated that over 50% of respondents watch micro-short dramas almost daily or 3-5 times a week, with viewing habits differing between high-tier and low-tier cities [11][12]. Viewing Habits - In first-tier cities, viewers tend to watch short dramas frequently but for shorter durations, while in lower-tier cities, the viewing frequency is lower but the duration is significantly longer [13][14]. - Common viewing scenarios include watching before bed, during weekends, and during breaks at work, with first-tier city viewers also favoring watching during commutes [16][18]. Content Preferences - Comedy, time-travel, and emotional themes are the most popular genres among viewers, with over 60% of younger audiences preferring to watch at increased speeds [22][28]. - Viewers prioritize "novelty" over "satisfaction" when watching short dramas, indicating a desire for fresh and creative content [31][40]. Advertising and Brand Integration - Despite the increasing presence of brand placements in micro-short dramas, over 60% of viewers have never made a purchase based on these advertisements, with a significant portion of male viewers expressing indifference towards them [67][70]. - The most commonly purchased product categories influenced by short dramas include household items, food and beverages, and beauty products, primarily due to their low decision-making threshold and frequent consumption [78][86]. Market Dynamics - The micro-short drama market is heavily dominated by free content, with platforms like Douyin and Hongguo leading in user engagement due to their extensive free resources [58][64]. - The market share of free content has surged from 11% to 50% between January and October 2024, highlighting a shift towards free viewing models [64]. Conclusion - The micro-short drama industry is evolving rapidly, with significant user engagement driven by changing viewing habits and preferences. Brands looking to leverage this medium must adapt their strategies to align with viewer expectations and behaviors [86].