YouTube is significantly enhancing its platform with the introduction and expansion of several artificial intelligence (AI) features, aimed at revolutionizing how users discover videos and interact with content. These advancements include an innovative AI-driven search results carousel and the broader rollout of a conversational AI chatbot, designed to streamline the user experience.

The newly introduced AI Search Results Carousel is a prominent update on the YouTube mobile app. When users input specific search queries, particularly those related to shopping, locations, or activities, the app may display a carousel of short video clips accompanied by AI-generated topic descriptions directly beneath the search bar. For instance, a search for “best beaches in Hawaii” might present clips highlighting snorkel spots or volcanic beaches, complete with descriptive text. Users can tap on these thumbnails to navigate between different clips or select a clip to commence watching the full video from that specific point. This feature, which began testing in April and was recently launched, is currently exclusive to YouTube Premium subscribers in the US and is available on Android and iOS devices for English-language videos, with a trial period extending until July 30. While offering quicker access to relevant information, this carousel, similar to Google Search’s AI Overviews, could potentially influence creator engagement as users might obtain necessary information without viewing the entire video.

In parallel with the search carousel, YouTube is also expanding its conversational AI chatbot. This AI assistant, which was initially introduced in 2023 and is powered by Gemini, allows viewers to ask questions about a video and receive recommendations for related content without interrupting their viewing experience or leaving the video player. Previously, this chatbot was available solely to Premium members. However, YouTube is now making it accessible to a broader segment of non-Premium users in the US within the coming weeks, primarily on Android devices. The feature is visually indicated by a sparkle icon located in the same row as other interaction buttons such as Like, Share, and Download, further integrating AI assistance directly into the video playback interface. These strategic AI rollouts underscore YouTube’s commitment to leveraging artificial intelligence to create a more efficient and interactive content discovery environment for its vast user base.