In November 2014, YouTube announced its intentions to reinvent the purpose of the award show.

In 2013, the inaugural YTMAs experienced mixed to negative reception due to technical difficulties, as well as having most of its award winners originate from mainstream music, rather than YouTube itself.

[1][2] Additionally, the director and hosts of the award show, were not allowed to rehearse prior to the ceremony's filming in a New York City warehouse at Pier 36.

"[2] Additionally, the setting of the ceremony was announced to no longer be presented in the form of a live show.

"[2][4] Although differences in the presentation format and purpose of the awards were announced, Kia Motors and VICE Media maintained their status as sponsors of the YTMAs.