YouTube Reintroduces Direct Messaging Feature After Six-Year Hiatus
YouTube is relaunching its direct messaging feature, initially removed in 2019, allowing users to share videos privately. The feature, tested for six months, requires users over 18 with verified ages to send invites via third-party platforms, aiming to limit spam and focus on existing connections.
Key points
- YouTube has reintroduced a direct messaging (DM) feature, six years after its removal in 2019.
- The new DM functionality enables users to share videos privately and communicate with others.
- Access requires users to be over 18 and have their age verified through their Google Account.
- Users initiate conversations by sending an invitation link via third-party messaging platforms, intended to connect with known individuals.
- The feature is rolling out globally to users in regions including the US, UK, Brazil, and Singapore, having previously launched in European countries.
- YouTube stated the relaunch addresses a 'top feature request' from its user base.
Video-sharing giant YouTube is bringing back its direct messaging (DM) feature, a functionality it previously discontinued in 2019. The platform owner, Google, announced the rebooted messaging capability, which allows users to share videos and engage in private conversations.
The reintroduction comes after a six-month testing period, with YouTube aiming to address user requests for enhanced private sharing. To access the new feature, users must be at least 18 years old and have their age verified. Conversations are initiated by sending an invitation link through external messaging services, a design choice intended to foster connections among known contacts and mitigate unsolicited messages.
The new messaging icon is now appearing in the YouTube app, situated next to the 'Cast' icon. YouTube stated that its Community Guidelines will apply to all content shared within the messaging system. The feature is currently being rolled out across various global regions, including the United States, United Kingdom, Brazil, and Singapore, following an earlier expansion into several European countries.
Sources
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