What just happened? Many users may feel frustrated by YouTube’s recent crackdown on ad blockers and its price increase for ad-free subscriptions. However, these decisions are just a small part of a larger refresh that YouTube is currently implementing. This update includes numerous features aimed at improving the playback experience.
Google announced the rollout of over thirty new features, starting this week. These additions will make it easier to play, seek, search, and perform other functions across mobile devices, PCs, and smart TVs.
One upcoming feature will provide viewers with quicker access to faster playback. Instead of using a dropdown menu, users can simply click and hold on the screen in full-screen or portrait mode to fast forward at double speed. Playback will return to normal once the user releases their hold.
A new seek function will display larger thumbnails, making it easier to find specific sections of videos. When the cursor is returned to its original position, viewers will feel a haptic vibration, allowing them to quickly return to where they left off.
A mobile feature called “Stable Volume” has also been introduced to minimize sudden changes in volume, preventing potential ear damage when using headphones. Users can access this function in the settings menu under “Additional Settings.”
Furthermore, mobile viewers can now lock the screen to prevent interruptions or accidental taps by selecting “Screen Lock” in the settings menu. However, certain ads and in-app notifications may still appear to ensure important information is not missed.
The platform will also introduce a music search feature similar to Shazam. Users will be able to find songs on YouTube Music by playing, singing, or humming the tune. The feature will initially debut on Android devices and will be available on other platforms later.
YouTube is also streamlining the library and account sections across all devices. The new “You” tab, replacing the library tab, will contain a user’s history, playlists, downloads, purchases, and account information.
Additionally, interactions with creators will receive new animations to enhance the experience. When someone in a video mentions something related to the platform, like asking viewers to “like and subscribe,” the corresponding buttons will glow and trigger a celebratory sequence when clicked. YouTube is likely aiming to create a viewer interaction experience similar to that of Twitch.
Furthermore, YouTube will replace the static comment rankings with a dynamic system that rotates through the most liked posts, providing viewers and creators with a more comprehensive view of feedback. The company has hinted at many more features to come, without providing further details.
It remains to be seen whether this significant update will lessen the impact of the increased YouTube premium prices as the platform continues its crackdown on ad blockers.
