Google is testing a new AI-driven search feature on YouTube called “Ask YouTube.” This aims to make searching feel more conversational. Currently, it’s available for YouTube Premium subscribers in the U.S. who are 18 and older.
When you activate this feature, an “Ask YouTube” button appears in the search bar. You can ask prompts like “funny baby elephant clips” or “summary of volleyball rules.” Even without typing anything, clicking the button takes you to a page of suggested questions.
After entering a query, you might see a loading page for a moment. For instance, when searching for the “short history of the Apollo 11 moon landing,” the results include a summary and key milestones like Neil Armstrong’s famous first step on the Moon. It also links to videos relevant to your query, organized under categories like “From Launch to Splashdown.”
At the bottom of the results, there are more suggestions, including “Who were the Apollo 11 astronauts?” and even “Apollo 11 conspiracy theories.” Clicking on these prompts presents tailored results, such as a grid about the astronauts. However, searching for conspiracy theories brings up traditional YouTube search results.
To see how accurate this feature is, I tested it with the Steam Controller, a device I recently reviewed. I typed “What is the Steam Controller?” The response included an overview and relevant video links. While most of the information was correct, there was a mistake—YouTube claimed the old Steam Controller had no joysticks, which it actually does. This highlights the importance of verifying information, even with AI assistance.
This new search method reflects a broader trend in technology. Users prefer interactions that mimic human conversations, and many tech companies are adopting AI to enhance user experience. According to a recent survey, over 70% of users are open to AI chat features improving online searches.
As YouTube continues to innovate, it will be interesting to see how this feature develops and whether it can overcome accuracy challenges.
For more insights on AI in technology, check out this expert analysis from TechCrunch.
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