YouTube’s New ‘Play Something’ Feature Revolutionizes Video Discovery

What is the ‘Play Something’ Feature?

With its new feature, ' Play Something, ' YouTube is stepping up its game to make content discovery easier and more personalized. This exciting addition is currently being tested on the YouTube app for Android, offering a seamless way to explore videos without the hassle of searching.

How Does It Work?

Here’s what happens when you use the ‘Play Something’ feature:

1. Open the YouTube application on your Android device.
2. If a video isn’t playing in the minimized player, the ‘Play Something’ button will appear on the screen.
3. Tap the button, and the app will play a video tailored to your viewing habits in portrait mode, just like how YouTube Shorts videos are displayed.

The player interface includes controls for liking, disliking, commenting, and sharing and a timeline scrubber for easy navigation.

Why It Matters

Endlessly scrolling through feeds to find something interesting can be frustrating. The ‘Play Something’ button eliminates this issue by instantly offering you content you’re likely to enjoy. This feature is particularly useful for those trying to get their YouTube video seen or anyone exploring an alternative app for making YouTube videos.

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How Does It Compare to Netflix?

Netflix introduced a similar concept in 2021 to help users discover movies and TV shows they might like. YouTube takes this idea further by incorporating both long-form and short-form videos. This flexibility caters to different viewing habits, making it an ideal feature for today’s diverse audience.

When Can You Try It?

Currently, the feature is being tested on the YouTube app for Android, so keep an eye out for updates. While there’s no official word on its global rollout, the buzz suggests it’s only a matter of time before everyone gets access.