Youtube gets a big update: These new functions are available

Google recently announced a major update for the YouTube video platform that is intended to appeal to both regular users and content creators. This includes over two dozen new features aimed at improving the YouTube experience and responding to the community’s wishes.

Some of the changes are already starting now, others will be rolled out gradually. These are the most important innovations.

New mini player

An important improvement is the new mini player for the YouTube mobile app, which allows you to watch videos and continue in the app at the same time. The miniplayer is customizable and can be moved, which is particularly useful for managing the queue while watching a video, for example. But other possible applications are also conceivable.

Adjustable playback speed

It has long been possible to adjust the speed of a video being played on YouTube. However, this only ever happened in fairly large steps of 0.25 to 2 times the speed. YouTube now offers more finely adjustable playback speeds, which can be set in 0.05 increments.

According to Google’s blog post, this is a feature that is being offered at the request of the community. This allows you to watch all user videos at your preferred pace.

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Shared playlists

For better interaction between users, you can now easily create and customize playlists together. Friends and family can be easily invited via a link in the case of the app or browser version. It will soon be possible to use a QR code on the TV.

At a later date there will also be the option to vote on adding videos. For example, fans of a Youtuber can create a playlist with their favorite videos, which is managed by the Youtuber.

New user interface on TVs

In addition, Google is adapting the user interface in the YouTube TV app. This includes a new, “cinematic” look and improvements for interaction with short videos.

Sleep timer

Anyone who frequently uses YouTube to watch music will benefit from the introduction of a new sleep timer. This stops playback automatically after a certain time. Previously the feature was only tested with YouTube Premium subscribers, but now it will be available to everyone.

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Collect badges

Users now have the opportunity to collect badges in the Youtube and Youtube Music apps. They serve as a reward for interactions or support of creators and can be presented to other users.

Further innovations

The new features will be available on mobile, web, TVs and YouTube Music. In addition, YouTube will introduce further innovations and adjustments in the coming weeks.