YouTube is always innovating to enhance the user experience, and its latest experiment is aimed at making video discovery more seamless. The platform is reportedly testing a new “Play something” button, designed to help users quickly find videos without the need for endless scrolling. This feature could be a game-changer for those looking for fresh content but unsure of what to watch next.
The “Play something” button, which appears above the bottom navigation bar, features a simple design with white text on a black background. Tapping the button activates a random video, giving users an instant way to discover new content. This feature is intended to alleviate the frustration of trying to decide what to watch, a problem many YouTube users experience, especially when there is an overwhelming amount of content available.
While the initial reports suggest the button triggers random videos in the Shorts player, it appears to have more versatility. It doesn’t just offer Shorts content; the button also functions for regular videos, which will be displayed in portrait mode. This flexibility means users can get a mix of different content types, whether they are in the mood for quick, bite-sized Shorts or longer, more immersive videos.
When a regular video is played, the interface is familiar, with the standard like, dislike, comment, and share buttons appearing on the right side of the screen. A timeline scrubber is also visible at the bottom of the player, allowing users to navigate through the video. This keeps the traditional viewing experience intact, offering users the control they are accustomed to, while also introducing a more random element to the process.
The new feature is still in testing, with limited users experiencing it, but it is part of YouTube’s ongoing efforts to improve user engagement and satisfaction. By offering a way to instantly play content without searching or scrolling, the “Play something” button could reduce decision fatigue and help users enjoy more content on the platform. For YouTube, this could mean increased video views, more time spent on the platform, and greater user retention.
In a world where time is precious, the “Play something” button could revolutionize the way we consume content, making it easier for users to enjoy a constant stream of entertainment without wasting time on the search for the perfect video.
