YouTube is set to introduce two generative AI features, marking a significant leap in how users interact with content and comments on the platform. By introducing these AI-driven tools, a conversational assistant and a comment summarizer, YouTube is not only enhancing the user experience but also setting a new standard for content interaction on video platforms. This move indicates YouTube’s commitment to leveraging advanced technology to stay ahead in the competitive digital media space.
Conversational AI tool
YouTube is rolling out a conversational AI tool within its premium package for paid subscribers. This tool, designed to enhance users’ interaction with content, utilizes large language models to provide responses based on YouTube and web information.
It allows users to ask questions about the video they are watching and get recommendations for related content. This feature is integrated seamlessly, enabling conversations with AI during video playback without interruption. For users, the conversational AI tool could provide a more interactive and personalized experience. Users can discover content more aligned with their interests by asking questions and receiving recommendations.
Initially, this feature will be available only in the U.S. and on Android devices, accessible via a new “Ask” option on the video’s watch page.
AI-powered comments summarizer
Alongside the conversational tool, YouTube is testing a comments summarizer that uses generative AI to organize and summarize discussion topics in video comments. This feature aims to help users quickly grasp the essence of discussions in large comment sections.
It’s not just viewers who can benefit; content creators can also use this tool to understand subscriber interactions and draw inspiration for new content. For content creators, the comment summarizer is a game-changer because it simplifies the process of understanding audience feedback and tailoring content accordingly. They have the option to delete comments under specific topics if desired.
This summarizer will work on published comments, excluding those held for review or containing blocked words or users. Currently, it’s available only in English and on a limited number of videos.
User and creator perspectives
These AI features offer a range of benefits for different types of users.
- Casual viewer: A casual viewer exploring travel vlogs can seamlessly ask the AI for recommendations on similar content, discovering new travel guides or culinary tours.
- Avid content creator: Creators can use the comment summarizer to gauge audience reaction to new video formats, informing their content strategy.
- Educational content consumer: Students can enhance their learning by asking the AI follow-up questions on educational topics.
- Music enthusiast: Users can find new music videos or artist recommendations based on their recent listening history.
- Video game enthusiast: Gamers can discover similar games or related content like reviews and tutorials through the AI tool.
- Small business owner: Business owners can use the comment summarizer to understand customer feedback on product demonstration videos.
YouTube’s AI experimentation
YouTube’s initiative is part of a broader trend where major digital platforms are increasingly incorporating AI into their services. From content recommendation algorithms to automated moderation tools, AI is becoming integral in shaping the digital content landscape.
Additionally, YouTube’s experimentation with AI isn’t new. The platform has previously integrated AI in various aspects, including AI-powered ads, music tools for videos, AI-powered dubbing, and features like “Dream Screen” for YouTube Shorts. These innovations prove YouTube’s dedication to enhancing user experience and creator tools through AI. As YouTube continues to test and refine these tools, it will be interesting to observe how they impact the platform’s dynamics and the broader digital content ecosystem.
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