iQIYI Reports 130% Global Viewership Surge Driven by Micro Dramas

The platform’s first-half 2026 data highlights a clear divergence in regional preferences. While Southeast Asian audiences lean heavily into localized long-form narratives, East Asian viewers are increasingly gravitating toward the rapid pacing of micro dramas. These short-form productions, characterized by high-stakes conflicts and themes of female empowerment, have emerged as a primary entry point for international users, with the title "Midnight Temptation" leading the global micro drama category.

Premium long-form content remains a pillar of the platform's success, with iQIYI self-produced titles sweeping the top 10 charts. "Pursuit of Jade" currently holds the top spot globally, bolstered by its aesthetic appeal and resonance on search engines. To sustain this momentum, the company has deployed the "iQIYI Starship Project," an initiative that combines 13-language subtitling and professional dubbing with offline fan events in Thailand, Malaysia, and other key territories. By tailoring its library to meet specific local demands—such as military-themed dramas in the Middle East or Spanish-dubbed content in Latin America—the platform continues to solidify its influence in the competitive global Asian entertainment sector.