YouTube is set to enhance its platform with a variety of new features aimed at improving user experience and functionality. The video-sharing company, owned by Alphabet, is introducing “over two dozen” updates, which include a new sleep timer, a resizable miniplayer, and adjustments to playback speed. These enhancements will be accessible on web browsers, YouTube’s mobile and TV applications, as well as YouTube Music.
New Sleep Timer and Adjustable Miniplayer
Among the key updates is the introduction of a sleep timer, enabling users to automatically stop video playback. Initially available only to Premium subscribers, this feature will now be accessible to all users. It is particularly beneficial for those who tend to doze off while watching videos, preventing unexpected battery drainage caused by the screen remaining on during playback and the autoplay feature.
The miniplayer has also undergone significant changes. Users can now resize and relocate it on their screens. Previously fixed in the lower right corner, the mobile video player can now be moved to any of the four corners while browsing for additional content.
Upgrades for YouTube on Smart TVs
The YouTube app on smart TVs is receiving a design overhaul, aiming for a “more cinematic feel,” according to company representatives. While exploring a channel, users will enjoy snippets of content from that creator, made possible by the newly designed immersive channel pages.
The YouTube app on TV will better utilize space while displaying Shorts
Photo Credit: YouTube
Additionally, the video player for YouTube Shorts on TV is being updated. Users will have the ability to view comments and shop content while engaging with vertical videos. These features will be positioned on the right side of the center-aligned player, ensuring an unobtrusive viewing experience.
Enhanced Collaboration and New Creator Badges
Creating collaborative playlists is becoming simpler with a feature that allows users to share a unique link for playlist collaboration. A forthcoming update for the YouTube app on TVs will also introduce a QR code feature, facilitating quick access for users to join and contribute to playlists. In the months to come, a voting feature will enable users to prioritize videos within playlists, inspired by similar systems on other platforms like Reddit.
In an effort to engage users further, YouTube will introduce “badges” for users who complete quizzes or become early paid supporters of a creator’s channel. Users of YouTube Music will also receive badges based on creator interactions, such as when a creator likes their comments or when they are recognized as a top listener for an artist. These badges are anticipated to be rolled out over the next several weeks.
