YouTube is trialing an innovative AI-driven search feature, available for Premium subscribers looking to enhance their search experience.
This new search method “mimics a conversational style,” as stated by YouTube. Users can engage with the tool by entering a query in the search bar and selecting “Ask YouTube.” In response, they will receive a mix of video and text results, along with the option to ask follow-up questions.
This enhanced search experience goes beyond merely listing videos, YouTube explains. For instance, if you inquire, “Can you plan a three-day road trip from San Francisco to Santa Barbara?” the results will include a detailed itinerary along with both long-form videos and YouTube Shorts.
Currently, Premium subscribers aged 18 and above in the U.S. can experience this feature on desktop, with plans for wider access to non-Premium users in the works.
YouTube Premium recently experienced a subscription increase, with individual plans now priced at $16 per month. This membership offers benefits such as ad-free viewing and the ability to continue playing videos while using other applications on your phone.
Google Gemini is the technology behind the tech giant’s AI features, which range from its main chatbot to AI Overviews appearing at the top of Google search results, as well as integrated AI functionalities on Pixel phones, Google’s image generator, Nano Banana, and video creator Veo 3. As Google incorporates more AI capabilities, YouTube is anticipated to expand its offering of innovative tools.
