YouTube Rolls Out Major UI Updates: Customizable Miniplayer, AI Thumbnails, and More
YouTube has introduced a fresh round of updates aimed at enhancing user experience across its mobile, web, and TV platforms. These updates focus on aesthetic improvements, usability tweaks, and some exciting new features designed to provide users with greater control and customization.
Refreshed UI with Sleek Visuals
One of the key changes YouTube has made is in the overall look and feel of the platform. A new frosted glass effect now subtly overlays various sections, creating a more modern and refined visual experience. In addition, adjustments to the bottom bar and the landscape mode across devices aim to improve accessibility and ease of use.
Customizable Playback Speed and Improved Miniplayer
A standout feature is the new customizable playback speed within the miniplayer. Now, users can fine-tune playback speed directly while using the miniplayer on mobile, allowing them to enjoy videos at their preferred pace without expanding the player. Furthermore, users can resize and reposition the miniplayer to their liking, making multitasking while watching videos more seamless than ever.
The miniplayer will continue to play videos even as users browse the platform. Now, you can even click on another video thumbnail while the miniplayer is up, and the new video will start playing instantly in the same mini window, without any interruptions.
Personalized Playlist Thumbnails with AI Integration
YouTube has also introduced the ability to create and customize thumbnails for playlists. Users can upload images from their device or create thumbnails using YouTube’s AI-powered tools. The “Create with AI” feature lets users choose a theme, and then the AI generates a selection of creative thumbnails based on that theme. You can even add text, filters, or stickers for a personalized touch.
Sleep Timer for Hands-Free Control
YouTube has rolled out a much-requested feature—a sleep timer. Originally tested with YouTube Premium members, the sleep timer allows users to set a specific duration for a video to automatically pause, perfect for anyone who enjoys watching videos before bed or during a workout.
YouTube Music and TV Get a Makeover
YouTube Music isn’t left out in this overhaul. The app now sports a better landscape mode, larger thumbnails, and bigger text for easier navigation. On the television front, YouTube has made subtle changes to create a more cinematic experience. Channel pages now autoplay a creator-selected video, giving viewers a preview before diving into full content. The new TV Shorts player lets users read comments or browse the shop while still watching videos, ensuring uninterrupted engagement.
Visit TechRozana for more updates.
