Continuing from last year’s refreshed look, YouTube has announced that it is rolling out three dozen new features and design updates to help users get more out of the Google-owned streaming platform. These changes will roll out gradually to our users around the world over the coming weeks. Here are a few of them:
New audio controls
YouTube is providing better audio control on mobile devices with “stable volume”. Rolling out to users worldwide, the feature will be automatically turned on to reduce jarring differences in volume, for an overall improved experience.
Easy fast-forward video speed
Until now, users could only tap twice on the player to get a 10-second leap in the video. YouTube will now allow users to forward a video twice as fast easily. When watching a video either in full screen or portrait mode, press and hold down anywhere on the player. This will automatically bump the playback speed to 2x.
Remove the thumb/ finger and the video will resume playing at normal speed. This feature will be available across web, tablets, and mobile devices.
Easy seeking
To help users quickly find “best moments” in videos, YouTube has launched bigger preview thumbnails while seeking.
“We’re also making it easier to change your mind — if you start seeking and need to go back, move your finger to where you started and lift when you feel a vibration; We’ll snap you back to the exact part of the video where you left off,” it said.
Lock screen on mobiles
In order to help users avoid accidental interruptions, YouTube is also rolling out a lock screen on mobile and tablets so that users can lock their screens to prevent unwanted interruptions.
You Tab: A tab for you
YouTube has also merged the Library tab and account page into one umbrella option called You tab. Under this section, users can find previously watched videos, playlists, downloads and purchases, as well as account-related settings and channel information. The feature is rolling out today on web, mobile, and tablets.
Search by voice or song
Users will now be able to search for a song by playing, singing, or humming. The company is using AI to match the sound to the original recording. The feature will roll out in the next few weeks, and will be available on Android devices for now.
Animated buttons
While watching a video on web or mobile, the page may react to what a creator says. When creators ask viewers to “like” or “subscribe,” a visual cue on those buttons will appear in sync with the video.
“And once fans smash that button, a subtle explosion of playful sparkles will reward them. Top comments automatically rotate so you can scan the best commentary from the community,” YouTube said.
Updates on YouTube for smartTVs
On Smart TVs, viewers can find details about a video they are watching in a new vertical menu – providing a cleaner look. They can just click on the video title to access the new menu. Meanwhile, web and mobile are also getting a scrollable description section.
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