YouTube is rolling out several new improvements aimed at enhancing the user experience, many of which are based on user feedback.
One of the most significant updates is the introduction of fine-tunable playback speed controls. Users will soon be able to adjust video playback speed in 0.05 increments, compared to the current 0.25 increments.
The maximum playback speed will remain capped at 2x, but the finer control will provide more flexibility.
Another major feature expansion is the sleep timer, which will now be available to all users, not just YouTube Premium subscribers.
The sleep timer allows users to set a specific time for stopping playback, with options ranging from 10 minutes to one hour, or to stop when the current video ends.
For iOS users, browsing in landscape mode will be enhanced later this year. Additionally, YouTube’s in-app miniplayer will become resizable and movable, giving users greater control over how they watch videos.
Collaborative playlists are also coming, allowing users to work together on playlist creation. Custom thumbnails can now be designed using either personal photos or generative AI tools. By the end of the year, YouTube will introduce a voting system for videos within playlists.
YouTube is also adding badges to its mobile apps, including YouTube Music. Initially, only a few badges will be available, such as rewards for being among the first paid members of a channel or for correctly completing quizzes.
Finally, YouTube on TV will receive a more “cinematic” upgrade. The service promises a refreshed look with splashes of pink and other visual enhancements to make the viewing experience more dynamic. Additionally, when visiting a channel’s page on your TV, a video will automatically play to preview the creator’s content.
These updates aim to improve usability and interaction on YouTube, enhancing the experience across platforms.