YouTube is testing a feature similar to X’s (formerly Twitter) Community Notes to fight misinformation, reports 9to5Google.
This new feature allows users to add notes that clarify confusing or inaccurate videos, which are reviewed and approved by other users before appearing beneath the video.
Google announced this feature in June and is now expanding its testing. Invitations for a pilot program are being sent to a select group of users, inviting them to “add helpful notes to videos” to provide additional information and create a better-informed YouTube community.
Write Notes on Videos – How It Works
YouTube explains that users can sign up to submit notes on inaccurate or unclear videos. After submission, notes are reviewed and rated by others.
A note is published only if it is rated as helpful by a broad set of users. YouTube will notify users when their note is published. Currently, this feature is available only on mobile devices.
Users in the program will see an “Add note” button under videos. Submitted notes should cite sources, be easy to understand, neutral, and directly address claims made in the video or its title.
Writing Notes
The support page details how to write a note and what happens after submission. Tips for writing notes include:
- Cite sources supporting the note’s claims.
- Use easy-to-understand language.
- Maintain neutrality and avoid personal opinions.
- Provide important context not available in the video, description, or title.
- Directly address claims made in the video or title.
Getting Started
To write a note:
- Tap “Add note” under the video.
- Write your note in the text box.
- Tap “Send.”
Published notes will be anonymous, and the channel name will not be displayed.
Availability
The program is invite-only, so if you don’t see the option to add a note, you might not be eligible. This feature is also unavailable for videos with minors, Made for Kids content, or private videos.
It is unknown how widely this pilot program will be available or when it will roll out to the general public.