Currently, public sub counts are abbreviated in most but not all places across YouTube. In August, we’ll make this more consistent by always showing abbreviated sub counts publicly. Creators: You’ll still see your full sub count in Studio! Learn more → http://yt.be/help/abbrev-count …pic.twitter.com/pmaKk4EU4k
How very bizarre. Their replies reiterating that the change is for the all important 'consistency' is almost creepy. Like a calm robot-voice insisting that the change (that you don't want, but cant stop) is for the better.