- YouTube launches AI Search Carousel to enhance video discovery for Premium users.
- Conversational AI chatbot expanded to select non-Premium users in the U.S.
- New streaming age policy increases minimum solo livestream age to 16.
YouTube has introduced a new AI-powered Search Carousel designed to transform how users explore content on its platform. Exclusively available to Premium users in the U.S. on Android and iOS, this feature curates a dynamic visual layout with a large featured video and supporting thumbnails, each accompanied by AI-generated summaries.
Alongside this, YouTube has expanded access to its conversational AI chatbot, initially limited to Premium subscribers. Now available to select non-Premium users, this feature—accessible via a sparkle icon beneath videos—enables viewers to ask context-aware questions, receive instant video summaries, and get personalized suggestions, all without interrupting playback.
Smarter Streaming: YouTube Expands AI Features to Redefine User Experience
The AI Search Carousel offers more than just a fresh interface—it reflects YouTube’s growing commitment to generative AI. Drawing from user intent and trending themes, the system curates a tailored set of video results for search queries like “hidden gems in Paris” or “budget-friendly fashion hauls,” making it easier to find relevant and engaging content quickly. The AI summaries serve as instant previews, eliminating the need to click through multiple videos.
This carousel layout bears similarities to Google’s AI Overviews seen in search, suggesting deeper integration between YouTube and broader Google ecosystems. The feature is currently in testing until July 30, 2025, and user feedback will likely shape its global rollout. While only available in English for now, the format is expected to expand both linguistically and geographically if successful.
Meanwhile, YouTube’s conversational chatbot adds a layer of real-time interactivity. Viewers can ask clarifying questions, such as “What’s the main takeaway of this tutorial?” or “Are there similar videos?”—and receive immediate, AI-driven responses. This promotes more meaningful engagement and enables users to extract maximum value from content without disrupting the flow of viewing.
Additionally, YouTube has updated its live streaming age policy, raising the minimum age to go live solo from 13 to 16 years. Starting July 22, creators under 16 must have a visibly present adult while streaming. This shift reinforces YouTube’s efforts to ensure safer digital environments for minors, aligning with global discussions around youth internet safety.
With these AI-powered features and policy updates, YouTube is clearly steering toward a smarter, safer, and more personalized user journey—balancing innovation with responsibility.
“The best way to predict the future is to invent it.” — Alan Kay
