Google-owned YouTube is trying out several new features, and it is testing them with YouTube Premium users.
This means Premium subscribers can try these features for free. The company is testing these features to make the experience of watching videos and listening to audio better.
Key Features Being Tested
High Quality Audio
YouTube is testing a feature that provides 256kbps audio on music videos. This improves sound quality, making the audio clearer and more detailed.
AI-Generated Radio Stations
YouTube is also experimenting with AI-generated radio stations on YouTube Music. Users can choose their preferences, and YouTube’s AI will create a playlist based on those choices.
Jump Ahead on Web
Previously available on mobile, this feature is now being tested on the web for Premium users. It allows users to skip directly to the best parts of a video while browsing on a desktop.
The company is also adding more playback speed options, allowing users to watch videos at up to 4x speed.
Picture in Picture and Smart Download for Shorts on iOS
For iOS users, YouTube is testing Picture-in-Picture mode for Shorts. This will allow users to watch Shorts while doing other tasks. Additionally, downloading Shorts for offline viewing will be easier.
Will These Features Be Available to All Users?
Currently, YouTube is testing these features only for Premium users. After the test, the company will decide whether to make them available to everyone.
There is no official date yet for when these features might be rolled out for all users.