YouTube is rolling out more changes to its platform but unlike the new unskippable 30-second ads and ads that appear while a video is paused, this one is a good thing for subscribers.
The streaming platform revealed new features using Google Assistant voice commands to like or dislike a video, as well as instruct it to subscribe or unsubscribe from a channel. YouTube voice commands already let users use voice commands like a regular remote with play, fast forward, pause, turn on closed captions, and all the rest. Check out the full list of new voice features here. Now, members can say “Hey Google…” to use almost everything on YouTube, such as podcasts.
YouTube also added a Podcasts category in the “More” section of the left navigation menu which will move closer to the top of the list if you’re a frequent listener. Saved podcasts will have new episodes highlighted along with recommendations for similar shows and popular episodes spanning across genres.
It’s now easier to switch between accounts, so if multiple accounts use the same device there’s significantly less hassle for everyone to access their own. This includes switching from a regular account to YouTube Kids.
The recommendation list has also been updated to show more relevant, responsive suggestions. Each time the page refreshes, you’ll find a whole new list of video suggestions related to your interests as well as the current video you’re watching.
This includes Shorts, which YouTube will begin prominently featuring alongside other content, although it does advise this feature might not work on televisions and other devices older than 2019. YouTube made this short little how-to video to explain how to browse, watch, and even create short-form videos quickly.
All these features are available via YouTube on any compatible device, from smartphones to smart TVs and even gaming consoles.