YouTube Tests "Play Something" Feature to Enhance Random Video Discovery on Mobile App

YouTube is currently experimenting with an intriguing addition to its Android mobile application. This new feature aims to assist users who are uncertain about what to watch by playing a random video. The function referred to as "Play Something" manifests as a floating action button featuring white text set against a dark background within the YouTube mobile app. Initially reported last year, this capability was limited to YouTube Shorts but has since broadened its scope.

Details regarding the Play Something button have surfaced from sources observing its presence in the YouTube for Android app version 19.50. This feature remains in the testing stage and has yet to receive an official announcement from the platform. The release highlights that when tapped, this option initiates playback in the YouTube Shorts section. Furthermore, the button is capable of launching standard YouTube videos displayed in a portrait orientation, while also offering functionalities such as liking, disliking, commenting, and sharing the content. When activated, a timeline scrubber appears at the screen's bottom, making navigation easier. However, the button will vanish once the mini-player is activated.

In addition to this new button, YouTube has introduced various features currently being tested. Among them are novel vertical scrolling gestures intended to alter the way viewers interact with content on the platform. By swiping up during playback, the user is directed to the next video instead of minimizing the current one to the standard interface. This new gesture is in line with those found in YouTube Shorts.

The platform is additionally improving its AI-powered auto-dubbing capabilities, which can translate and transcribe videos translated from English to various languages and vice versa versa. This expansion targets informational and knowledge-based content, enabling creators to reach audiences that do not share the same language, thus eliminating communication barriers.