Apple

YouTube Premium Introduces Smart Downloads and Picture-in-Picture Mode for Shorts

27 June 2024

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Paikan Begzad

Summary

YouTube is enhancing its Premium service with new features, including smart downloads and picture-in-picture mode for Shorts. Additionally, the "Jump Ahead" feature is being expanded for easier video navigation.

Previously, YouTube allowed background play and picture-in-picture for long-form videos, enabling users to watch content while using other apps. Now, these capabilities are extended to Shorts, initially available for Android users.

The "Jump Ahead" feature, activated by a double-tap, quickly moves viewers to the most engaging parts of a video. This is determined through a mix of viewer data and machine learning. After a successful testing phase, this feature is now available to all Android users in the U.S., with an iOS release planned soon.

YouTube is also introducing experimental features, such as a conversational AI tool that allows users to ask questions related to the video or request recommended content. This tool is now available for Android users in the U.S.

Moreover, smart download support for Shorts will automatically save short videos for offline viewing based on recent viewing history. YouTube is also testing a redesigned watch page for desktop users.

Earlier this year, YouTube announced it had over 100 million paid subscribers across its Premium and Music services globally.