YouTube tests a new feature to help you decide what to watch

With over 500 hours of content uploaded every minute, YouTube can be overwhelming when you’re unsure what to watch next. To help users navigate its massive library, YouTube is testing a new button called “Play something.”

How the “Play something” feature works

According to reports from 9to5Google, the “Play something” button might soon appear for some users on the latest version of the YouTube app for Android. When tapped, the button plays a video automatically through the YouTube Shorts interface.

YouTube’s selection process for these videos isn’t entirely clear, but it’s likely based on your watch history and personalised recommendations. Additional videos are served after the initial video ends, creating a continuous viewing experience.

Although the feature uses the vertical YouTube Shorts interface, it’s not limited to Shorts. Standard YouTube videos can also appear, making it a versatile option for exploring different types of content. However, the feature is still being tested and is unavailable to all users.

Why YouTube wants to simplify your choices

Letting YouTube pick your next video might seem random, but it aligns with the platform’s goal of keeping viewers engaged. YouTube knows a lot about your viewing habits, so its recommendations could be better than expected.

The feature addresses “decision fatigue”—the feeling overwhelmed by too many choices. Instead of scrolling endlessly, users can let YouTube decide, reducing browsing time and keeping them on the platform longer.

This isn’t the first time YouTube has tested such features. The “Play something” concept has been in the works for a while, with several tweaks to the interface. The feature is now being rolled out more widely, though not everyone will see it yet.

What’s next for YouTube?

Recent updates from YouTube show the platform’s commitment to improving the user experience. Innovations like smart downloads for YouTube Shorts (available to premium subscribers) and tools for skipping parts of videos demonstrate YouTube’s focus on convenience and engagement.

It could become a staple feature if the “Play something” button proves successful. While it’s currently limited to Android users, it may eventually roll out across other devices. For now, it’s another way YouTube works to make your viewing experience seamless.