A bug in the YouTube for Android app has caused a key UI element to disappear, significantly limiting app functionality and preventing users from accessing essential features like Subscriptions, Library, and profile options.
The issue affects only Android users in the US, including Premium subscribers, but Google is investigating and recommending a temporary web browser workaround. This means users are left primarily able to watch home feed videos or search for content on their phones.
For those familiar with lesser-known YouTube features that work across both free and Premium tiers, this may not be an issue. However, for basic users looking to access online video content on their mobile devices, the bug’s impact is noticeable.
The bottom navigation bar, which housed Subscriptions, Shorts, Library buttons, and a profile icon, has disappeared from the app. This means users can only watch videos on their home feed or search for content using the top search button. The missing profile icon affects access to playlists, history, inognito mode, account switching, and app settings.
Google is currently working to resolve the issue, but a fix is not available yet. In the meantime, Android users can use a temporary web browser workaround at m.youtube.com to access YouTube features smoothly.
Source: https://www.androidpolice.com/youtube-bug-made-bottom-navigation-bar-disappear-android