YouTube's video UI is undergoing a major update. This change isn't simply a redesign; it's focused on creating a more immersive and intuitive YouTube experience by visually reflecting the vibrant nature of content and creators. The new design will be rolled out globally starting October 13th.
The most notable change is the revamped video player. Applicable across all platforms, including mobile web TV, buttons and icons have been made translucent, allowing for a wider viewing experience. The "double-tap seek" feature for moving between videos has also been redesigned to be less intrusive. On mobile, the transition animation between tabs has been improved for a more natural experience.
Interaction features have also been revamped. The "Like" button now responds with customized animations based on the content type, with music videos displaying musical notes and sports videos displaying game-related graphics. The "Watch Later" and playlist-add processes have also been visually streamlined for more intuitive operation. Comments have also been reorganized into a threaded structure, making it easier to follow the flow of replies.
However, some users who experienced the new interface first have complained that the screen information appears overly compressed. In particular, many have expressed unfamiliarity with the structure, which displays only usernames, eliminating channel names. Nevertheless, experts believe that detailed improvements, such as adjusted icon placement and improved transparency, will increase content focus in the long term.
