Key Highlights
- YouTube tests a ‘Play Something’ button for random video discovery
- Uses Shorts player for all videos, needing format tweaks
- Still experimental, no release date yet
YouTube is testing a new feature called the ‘Play Something’ button. It is designed to help users find random videos to watch effortlessly. This floating button, spotted on Android devices, works like a shuffle option for videos. If offers a quick and fun way to discover content without endless scrolling.
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What Is The ‘Play Something’ Button?
The ‘Play Something’ button is located above the bottom navigation bar in the YouTube app. With just one tap, the feature selects a video for you to watch, making it ideal for those unsure of what to play next.
This isn’t YouTube’s first attempt at a random video selector. Over the past year, different versions of this feature have been tested, including banners and simple buttons. The latest floating button appears to be YouTube’s most focused approach yet.
Interestingly, the ‘Play Something’ button uses the YouTube Shorts player to display both Shorts and standard videos. However, all videos are shown in the vertical format meant for Shorts, which might feel awkward for longer, standard videos. YouTube may need to adjust this aspect for a smoother experience.
Inspiration From Netflix
The feature bears similarities to Netflix’s retired ‘Surprise Me’ option, which helped users find random shows or movies to watch. Both features aim to eliminate the indecision of scrolling through endless content, making it easier to stumble upon something engaging.
Benefits For Users And Creators
For users, the ‘Play Something’ button can feel like flipping through TV channels, letting them discover unexpected content. Creators also benefit, as their videos may get featured randomly, increasing visibility and audience reach.
Although the feature sounds promising, the reliance on the vertical Shorts player for all videos could limit its appeal. A dynamic player that adapts to video type — vertical for Shorts and landscape for standard videos — would make the feature more versatile.
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When Will It Launch?
As of now, YouTube hasn’t confirmed a release date for the ‘Play Something’ button. It’s still an experimental feature, part of YouTube’s continuous effort to improve its platform and offer new ways to engage users.
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