YouTube TV refreshed UI makes video watching more engaging for users
YouTube is announcing a redesign of its smart TV app to enhance the interaction between users and their favorite channels. The updated user interface (UI) will slightly shrink the main video to make space for an information column. This column will display important details such as the video's view counts, number of likes, description, and comments. Surprisingly, despite the internet's advice, people do read the YouTube comments section. The current layout already includes this column, but it covers the right side of the screen. However, YouTube assures us that the new design will allow users to enjoy their content without interrupting or ruining their viewing experience. But don't worry, this redesign won't become the new norm. According to TheVerge's coverage, the full-screen view will still be an option and won't be replaced or removed as the default setting. Users can switch to the revamped interface anytime while watching a video. It's completely up to the viewer how they want to curate their own experience. The content displayed in the UI column will vary depending on the type of video being watched. As shown in YouTube's announcement, for example, if you're watching a video about beauty products, below the comments section, you can check out the specific products mentioned in the video and even purchase them directly. Shopping on YouTube TV might seem seamless, but TheVerge mentions that it could be a bit awkward. Instead of buying items directly from a channel, users will have to scan a QR code that appears on the screen. This will take them to a web page where they can complete the transaction. We reached out to YouTube to confirm this, and a company representative confirmed that this is indeed how it will work. In addition to shopping, the right column of the UI will also display live scores and statistics for sports games. This will be part of the existing "Views suite of features," all of which can be accessed by triggering the appropriate on-screen filter. The update will be rolled out to all YouTube TV subscribers in the upcoming weeks. However, it won't happen all at once, so keep an eye out for the patch when it arrives.