YouTube Experiments with New Desktop Watch Experience Layouts

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YouTube is experimenting with various desktop watch experience layouts for a select group of users to help them discover related videos and engage with comments. The experiment involves adjusting the positions of key features, such as the video description, comments, and recommended videos.

One example shared by a viewer shows the video description and comments displayed to the right of the video, with recommended videos appearing underneath it.

Why It Matters: With this experiment, YouTube is trying to determine whether repositioning specific features can increase engagement metrics like video likes or viewing recommended videos. Positive results from specific layouts may lead to permanent changes or personalized layout options based on individual user behavior.

YouTube has been actively improving its watch experience. Recently, it introduced an update for creator channel pages on televisions, including larger channel art and more prominent buttons. In 2022, the platform underwent a major visual makeover, introducing vibrant colors, a streamlined video player, and improved video navigation for viewers.