YouTube has announced a variety of features aimed at enhancing the user experience across web, mobile, TVs, and YouTube Music.
Matthew Darby, Director of Product Management at YouTube, stated that these updates are “designed with viewers and creators in mind” and include over two dozen improvements.
Enhanced Miniplayer for Multitasking
YouTube is introducing an improved miniplayer that allows users to multitask more effectively. According to Matthew Darby, users will have greater control, enabling them to browse YouTube while watching videos simultaneously.
The new miniplayer can be resized and moved within the YouTube mobile app, making it easier to search for additional content while enjoying a current video.
Collaborative Playlist Creation
YouTube is making it easier for users to create and share playlists. Users can invite friends and family to collaborate using a special link or a QR code, which will soon be available for TVs. This feature aims to foster teamwork in creating the perfect playlist.
Custom Thumbnails for Playlists
YouTube is introducing tools for users to create custom thumbnails for their playlists. According to Matthew Darby, users can upload personal photos or use generative AI to design unique thumbnails.
- Users can create a custom thumbnail by selecting an image from their camera roll and adding text, filters, or stickers for personalization.
- The AI feature allows users to choose a theme and generate images based on their selections.
Additionally, users will be able to vote on videos within playlists later this year, enhancing interaction among friends and creators.
Sleep Timer for Better Viewing Habits
YouTube is launching a Sleep Timer feature, allowing users to set a timer to automatically pause videos after a specified duration.
Matthew Darby noted that this feature has been tested with Premium members and will now be available to all users on mobile devices, helping them manage their viewing time before sleep.
Badges for Community Engagement
To enhance community engagement, YouTube is introducing badges in the YouTube and YouTube Music apps.
These badges will celebrate milestones unique to the platform, such as being an early paid member of a creator’s channel or a top listener of an artist. Users can view their earned badges in the “You” tab, with the rollout starting in the coming weeks.
Upgraded YouTube Experience on TV
The latest updates also include visual enhancements for the YouTube app on TVs, providing a more cinematic viewing experience. New UI features will allow users to interact with Shorts, read comments, and browse the shop without interrupting their viewing.
Additionally, immersive channel pages will begin playing videos automatically when users visit a creator’s channel, offering a sneak peek of the content.
Availability
These updates are set to roll out across web, mobile, TVs, and YouTube Music starting October 15, 2024.