YouTube is preparing to introduce an enhanced feature that allows users to double the playback speed of videos. As the platform tests various upcoming features, users will now be able to simply long press anywhere on the video player, and after a few seconds, the content will automatically double in speed. This new method is a significant improvement as it eliminates the need to navigate through multiple on-screen menus to adjust playback speed. This update will be particularly valuable for users who listen to podcasts on YouTube Music, as it enhances the overall user experience by preventing accidental skips on the timeline when opening the Settings.
This long press update is immediately available on both the mobile app and desktop version for YouTube Premium subscribers. To activate it, users can visit the YouTube Labs website and click the “Try It Out” button located under the 2x speed entry. The mobile app also provides direct access to YouTube Labs within the Settings menu. Interested users are encouraged to act quickly as the 2x speed feature will only be available until August 13.
In addition to the 2x speed update, YouTube is introducing two other noteworthy changes. One is the Lock Screen feature, which disables all touch input while watching a full-screen video to prevent any disruption caused by accidental screen taps. This feature can be accessed through a new gear icon located in the top left corner of the display and is exclusive to YouTube’s mobile app.
The second change involves bigger thumbnail previews on all versions of the platform. YouTube expects that the increased thumbnail size will make it easier for users to find the exact moment in a video they want to watch.
Like the 2x speed feature, these last two updates will only be available for a limited time. Lock Screen will be accessible on mobile until August 5, while the bigger thumbnails update will continue until August 13.
A potential fourth?
YouTube is also testing a fourth experiment known as Stable Volume, although only a select few users have access to it. According to YouTuber M. Brandon Lee, Stable Volume may function as a “normalizer and compressor” to ensure audio volume remains consistent between videos, eliminating abrupt volume changes. However, Lee speculates that this feature may pose issues for music as force-compressing audio could potentially compromise sound quality. It is reassuring to know that users will have the option to disable Stable Volume at any time.
We have reached out to Google for more information regarding the official launch date of these experimental features and whether the availability of Stable Volume will expand. We will update this story as more details become available.
This positive YouTube update is a refreshing change from recent experiments aimed at curbing the use of ad-blockers on the platform. Nevertheless, users can still enjoy an ad-free browsing experience by exploring TechRadar’s list of the best ad blockers for 2023.
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Deepak Sen is a tech enthusiast who covers the latest technological innovations, from AI to consumer gadgets. His articles provide readers with a glimpse into the ever-evolving world of technology.
