YouTube is redesigning its smart TV app to increase interactivity between people and their favorite channels.
In a recent blog post, YouTube described how the updated user interface shrinks the main video a bit to make room for an information column showing a video’s number of views, number of likes, a description, and comments. Yes, despite the internet’s advice, people read the YouTube comments section. The current layout has the same column, but hides the right side of the screen. YouTube said in its announcement that the redesign will allow users to enjoy content “without interrupting (or ruining) the viewing experience.”
Don’t worry about this becoming the new normal. The edge their coverage states maintain full screen display. It is not replaced by the refresh or removed as a default setting. You can switch to the redesigned interface at any time from the video player screen. It is entirely up to the viewer how he wants to put together his experience.
Varying content
What you see in the UI column may differ depending on the type of content being viewed. In the announcement, YouTube shows how the layout works by playing a video about beauty products. Below the comments, viewers can view the specific products mentioned in the clip and purchase them directly.
Shopping on YouTube TV may seem seamless, but TheVerge claims it will be a bit tricky. Instead of purchasing items directly through a channel, you have to scan a QR code that appears on the screen. From there, you will be taken to a web page where users can complete the transaction. We contacted YouTube to double check, and a company representative confirmed that this is how it will work.
In addition to shopping, the far right column also shows live scores and statistics for sports matches. It will be part of the already existing “View suite of features”, all of which can be found by activating the appropriate filter on the screen.
The update will be released to all YouTube TV subscribers in the coming weeks. It won’t happen all at once, so keep an eye out for the patch when it arrives.
Be sure to check out Ny Breaking’s recommendations for the best TVs for 2024 if you’re looking to upgrade.