The invitation-only experiment provides step-by-step AI answers that combine short clips and longer videos, enabling more structured and discoverable searches.
YouTube is experimenting with new search features that combine artificial intelligence with guided answers and step-by-step results. The new option aims not only to display videos, but also to provide structured routes containing textual information and video material in various formats.
Called Ask YouTube, users can create queries like “Plan a 3-day trip from San Francisco to Santa Barbara” and receive step-by-step answers that alternate between text descriptions, short video clips, and longer videos with title and channel data, making it easier to discover new content creators.
Users can also formulate specific questions, for example, “Where can I get high-quality coffee?” Receive recommendations in a similar style.
Who can use this feature now?
Access to this experiment is currently available to Premium subscribers in the United States who are 18 years of age or older. Participation will be activated through the corresponding invitation. Google also says it is working to make this feature available to users without a premium subscription in the future.
Google also continues to expand its use of AI search modes in various areas. Last year we released an AI mode with step-by-step queries, and this year we released tools for parallel web page browsing and product price research. Gemini Canvas also allows you to save your project in AI mode.
Potential impact on user experience
This test could open up new video formats and monetization opportunities through sponsored placements along with step-by-step instructions and personalized recommendations.
The integrations are designed to not only make searching easier, but also make searching more structured. Users will receive a combination of textual explanations and video materials that take into account the context of their queries.
The company plans to expand access and adjust how results are displayed according to different regions and subscriptions, making search more interactive and useful to a wide range of users.
In summary, YouTube aims to combine classic video content with AI tools to provide users with a more structured and personalized search experience.
Ultimately, this new feature could enable users to more quickly find relevant materials, plan actions, and discover new channels within a single platform.
