YouTube has just announced a significant update, introducing over three dozen new features to improve the user experience. This global rollout aims to modernise the platform’s design while giving users more control over their viewing experience.
Easier and better watching
One of the standout features of this update is the “stable volume” option, which automatically adjusts abrupt volume changes to offer a smoother listening experience. This feature is making its debut on mobile platforms. Another nifty feature lets you double the playback speed simply by pressing and holding on to the video player. Once you let go, the video returns to its original speed. This works on web browsers, tablets, and mobile phones alike.
Additionally, YouTube has introduced larger preview thumbnails to help you find the exact moment you’re looking for in a video. If you change your mind while scrubbing through a video, a simple gesture will snap you back to your original position. The mobile viewing experience gets another boost with a new lock screen feature, which prevents unintentional taps from pausing or skipping the video.
Streamlined search and easier discovery
Finding your favourite content is simpler with the new “You” tab. This tab combines your Library and account pages into a single hub, making accessing previously watched videos, playlists, and more easier. In a step towards intuitive search, YouTube also introduces voice and song-searching capabilities. Users can now find videos by humming, singing, or playing a melody. This feature uses artificial intelligence to match the audio with the original recording and will initially be available on Android.
A fresh look with animated touches
YouTube content creators will notice subtle animations added to the ‘like’ and ‘subscribe’ buttons, offering an engaging way to prompt viewers to interact. For users, top comments will now automatically rotate, providing a dynamic look at engaging feedback. Real-time counters for views and likes will animate during the first 24 hours after a new upload. If you watch YouTube on a Smart TV, you’ll also find video details, descriptions, and comments more easily accessible through a new pop-up menu. Similar changes are in the pipeline for web and mobile versions.
