YouTube Rolls Out Direct Messaging Feature to US Users
YouTube has launched its experimental direct messaging feature in the United States for users aged 18 and over. Originally tested in Europe, the feature allows users to privately share videos and Reels. This marks YouTube's return to direct messaging after discontinuing a similar feature in 2019.
Key points
- YouTube's direct messaging feature, previously tested in Europe, is now available to US users aged 18 and older.
- The feature allows users to send private messages, primarily for sharing YouTube videos and Reels.
- This initiative represents YouTube's second attempt at implementing direct messaging, following a similar feature that was active from 2017 to 2019.
- YouTube stated the renewed DM feature was a top user request and aims to enhance video sharing among friends.
- The company plans to further expand testing of the direct messaging functionality.
Google-owned YouTube has officially expanded its experimental direct messaging (DM) feature to users in the United States. The rollout is now available for individuals aged 18 and above.
This direct messaging capability first underwent testing in European markets late last year, with initial trials in Ireland and Poland. It subsequently saw a broader rollout across more European countries in March. The feature's expansion to the US follows positive feedback from these initial markets, according to YouTube.
The renewed focus on direct messaging comes after YouTube previously launched and then discontinued a similar feature in 2019. At that time, the company cited a desire to encourage more public engagement through the comments section. YouTube has indicated that reintroducing DMs was a direct response to significant user requests, aiming to simplify the process of sharing YouTube content, including videos and Reels, with contacts.
Users can access the DM feature by navigating to the 'Messages' icon, typically located in the top-right corner of the YouTube mobile application, and then selecting 'Invite to chat.' Recipients have the option to accept or decline these invitations. While the feature facilitates in-app sharing, YouTube has clarified that users can still share content via external applications.
YouTube has indicated its intention to continue testing and potentially expand the direct messaging feature further based on ongoing user response and performance data.
Sources
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