YouTube is introducing new features aimed at enhancing its discovery process within the app. The platform is expanding access to its in-stream AI chatbot tool, which will guide users through exploring topics related to their search queries.
A new AI-powered search element has been added to the YouTube app, providing a carousel of results based on user queries. This feature suggests additional videos and topics aligned with the search query, allowing users to delve deeper into the subject matter via contextual markers.
For example, searching for “best beaches in Hawaii” may yield an AI-generated carousel highlighting clips from videos showcasing snorkel spots and volcanic beaches, complete with descriptions and more videos to plan a day. This feature could help creators increase views on certain clips by showcasing a wider range of content based on expanded understanding of the initial query.
Additionally, product matches will be aligned with related searches, opening up new promotional opportunities for creators. However, it remains to be seen if this feature will drive significant discovery for users.
The AI-powered search is currently limited to travel and shopping-related searches but may provide value in other contexts as well. YouTube is testing the new option for selected queries with YouTube Premium subscribers in the US.
On a related front, YouTube’s conversational AI tool within the playback UI is being expanded to non-Premium subscribers. This feature allows viewers to ask questions about videos, digging deeper into specific topics and exploring additional content.
In a statement, YouTube notes that its conversational AI tool will be available to some non-Premium users in the US in the coming days, providing another means for users to engage with YouTube content.
Source: https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/youtube-tests-ai-discovery-tool-ai-chatbot-access/751794