YouTube is testing a new “Play Something” button in its Android app, as reported by 9to5Google. The button floats just above the app’s bottom bar and offers a way for users to randomly select a video to watch. When tapped, the feature automatically picks a video, aiming to eliminate the hassle of browsing through endless options.
In its current iteration, the feature uses the YouTube Shorts player to display content, even if the selected videos are not in the vertical format typically associated with Shorts. This approach might feel inconsistent, and YouTube could refine this aspect before rolling the feature out to all users.
This isn’t YouTube’s first experiment with such functionality. Over the past year, the company has tested variations of the “Play Something” feature, including a banner and a button resembling a black-and-white YouTube logo. The idea mirrors similar features on other platforms, such as Netflix’s now-retired “Play Something” (originally called “Surprise Me”) shuffle option, which aimed to help users quickly choose a show or movie.
By introducing “Play Something,” YouTube could cater to users who prefer a more passive browsing experience, especially as the platform's vast content library can sometimes overwhelm decision-making. The feature is still in the testing phase, and its design or functionality could change based on user feedback before a broader release.
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| YouTube is testing a new “Play Something” button |