YouTube is rolling out a major update to its mobile app for iOS and Android, changing how users access content and navigate the platform. Announced in October, the redesign places greater emphasis on Shorts and content creation while removing the traditional Subscriptions tab from the bottom navigation bar.
The app now features a 4-button navigation menu instead of the previous 5-button layout. The updated menu includes Home, Shorts, Create and Profile. YouTube is also preparing to introduce custom feeds that users can build directly from the home screen.
Subscriptions moves to the top navigation menu
The Subscriptions section has been moved to a new menu at the top of the home page, labelled ‘Subs’. The navigation bar also includes Home, Music, Live and More. Selecting ‘More’ provides access to additional sections, including Movies & TV, Charts, Gaming and Memberships.
However, accessing subscriptions now requires an extra step. The top navigation bar disappears around 2 seconds after opening the app. Users must swipe down on the feed to bring it back and then select ‘Subs’ to view updates from their subscribed channels.
Greater focus on Shorts and custom feeds
The redesign gives YouTube Shorts a larger presence, with much of the home page dedicated to short-form videos. Users can select the 3-dot menu near the top navigation bar and choose “Show fewer Shorts”. The app then displays the message “Got it, we’ll show you fewer Shorts on Home”, along with an ‘Undo’ option to reverse the choice.
The new ‘Subs’ section retains its familiar layout. Meanwhile, the custom feeds feature, which has not yet appeared for all users, is expected to add more personalisation. A ‘+’ option to the left of the top navigation bar will allow users to create recommendation feeds using natural language prompts.
Users will be able to describe their interests through topics, channels, video styles and other preferences.
Free users will be limited to 3 active custom feeds, while Premium subscribers can create up to 8. The feature is expected to expand to more international markets, although it may not be available everywhere yet.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream LinkedIn | The Mainstream Facebook | The Mainstream Youtube | The Mainstream Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.