Coming Back, YouTube Tests Messaging Feature In The Application

YouTube is testing the messaging feature (photo: dock. unsplash)

JAKARTA YouTube seems to be bringing back the messaging feature on its platform. The video application under Google is seen testing its features to a small group of users.

This feature used to be integrated within the application. Like the messaging feature in general, users can exchange messages privately. With the return of this feature on YouTube, users no longer need to rely on third-party applications to share videos.

Users who have access to this feature can share various types of videos directly within the application. Content that can be shared includes long videos, Shorts, and live broadcasts.

To use this feature, users only need to tap the "Part" button until the chat room opens. Friends who receive messages can reply with other videos, type short replies, or use emojis to interact.

This is good news because currently users only rely on third-party platforms to share YouTube videos, such as WhatsApp or iMessage. This feature will keep interactions on the platform, similar to TikTok.

This is a profitable step because the feature of exchanging messages on TikTok is relied on a lot, either just to exchange videos or to discuss videos that have just been watched. TikTok also includes a lot of stickers to make conversations more interesting.

The message feature on YouTube was deleted in 2019, but the platform never disclosed the reason clearly. Some suspect that this feature is underutilizing, while others suspect that this closure is related to safety issues.

YouTube may be worried about the safety of younger users and inappropriate content on its platform. This may also underlie the reason why YouTube only test its messaging feature for users aged 18 years and over.

During this test, YouTube will review all messages to ensure all users follow Community Guidelines. Currently, testing message features is only available to users in Ireland and Poland.