YouTube Rolls Out New Features for CTV and Studio
YouTube has launched several updates to enhance the connected TV (CTV) app experience on smart TVs and gaming consoles. These changes aim to simplify navigation and content discovery for viewers.
Improved CTV Navigation
The updated CTV app features easier access to frequently watched channels with a new "Top Channels" section. A "Continue Your Search" shelf displays recent searches, eliminating the need to re-type complex queries on TV remotes or game controllers. Music lovers will appreciate the "Listen Again" shelf for music clips and a dedicated section for live performances, remixes, and covers.
A dedicated Podcasts tab caters to the growing number of people listening to podcasts on their TVs. According to Mondo Metrics, 30% to 40% of YouTube podcast views now originate from CTV devices. Finally, a new Shorts shelf aims to increase Shorts consumption on larger screens.
Enhanced Studio Features
Beyond CTV, YouTube Studio also receives key updates. Creators can now track video upload progress directly within the YouTube app on mobile and tablet devices. A new visual indicator displays the upload percentage and status.
Creators will see an uploading arrow and percentage upload. Filter chips are located atop the channel page, allowing creators to change what videos are visible on their page, and not what viewers can see.
Shorts creators gain more control over captions with the ability to add, edit, and stylize text with custom fonts and colors on mobile. Additional updates include new search filters within the Studio mobile app's Playlist tab and enhanced analytics displaying watch time by device type.
These updates, while seemingly small, offer significant improvements for both viewers and creators on YouTube.
