YouTube is taking account mentions to the next level
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In an effort to increase engagement between creators and users, YouTube is adding unique account handles for channels, similar to those found on social media platforms.
You may know them better as the “@” symbol that appears before a username. When this function is started (opens in new tab)can you name content creators or other users to “raise” [a video’s] visibility and [help it reach] new audience.” YouTube implemented something similar a while ago. Makers can shout out other channels in video titles and descriptions (opens in new tab) or let people mention other users in live chats, but it wasn’t.
Handles, on the other hand, will be used in more locations such as YouTube Shorts, channel pages, video descriptions, comments, and even in the channel URL. With regard to custom URLs, it seems that Google may be removing them in favor of handles. A YouTube help page (opens in new tab) reveals that channels will no longer be able to set or change custom URLs, but they will still be supported when the new feature launches.
Launch in waves
Handles are being rolled out in phases, according to YouTube. For the rest of October, creators will be notified (via email or YouTube Studio) when they can create their handles, so they can claim them before anyone else can. Channels that already have a custom URL will be automatically switched to the new system. That unique URL will be the handle that goes further.
According to an other youtube help page (opens in new tab), which channels are chosen first “depends on a number of factors” such as presence on the platform, number of subscribers, and how active the channel is. Presumably the biggest channels will be the first. There is also hope that the lever function will reduce the number of channel imitators. YouTube wants to make sure that you, the viewer, are interacting with the right creator.
Channels have until November 14 to choose their unique handles, after which YouTube will create one for you, but they aren’t set in stone. At any time you can proceed to the Treat page (opens in new tab) and change it.
Tik-Tok Contest
Looking at this feature, we can’t help but feel that this is yet another attempt at competing with TikTok. The platform has its own version of handles, so it makes sense that YouTube would eventually copy it.
In addition, YouTube Shorts has been quite successful. Sunder Picat, CEO of Alphabet, claims: the new video format is viewed more than a billion times daily. As a result, YouTube consistently supports Shorts, add new features almost every month and enable users to monetize their content.
Compared to Meta’s Instagram Reels, Shorts is arguably TikTok’s real rival. It will be interesting to see how YouTube continues to build it and what Meta’s response will be. Forcing roles on people has backfired, so a different approach may be in order.
Speaking of Meta, the company recently held its Connect 2022 where it finally unveiled Project Cambria, now rebranded as the Meta Quest Pro headset. Be sure to come and have a look TechRadar’s coverage of the event.