Google has begun testing a new feature for the mobile version of the YouTube service, aiming to expand viewers’ ability to comment on videos. This new feature, named “Notes,” allows users not only to leave their opinions but also to contribute to the video’s annotation. The company has explained the necessity of this feature and demonstrated its functionality.
The “Notes” Feature
The “Notes” feature enables users to leave important annotations on a video that other viewers can rate as “useful” or “useless.” If a note receives enough positive ratings, it will be displayed in a small pop-up window that expands to look like a video description. Otherwise, it will remain hidden from view.
This feature is designed to allow viewers to add valuable context to videos. For instance, they can clarify that a video is a parody or highlight that the content shown is outdated footage presented as current events. By marking specific points on the video’s timeline, viewers can provide timely and relevant information.
Testing and User Guidelines
During the testing phase, Google is collecting data on what users find useful and unhelpful to train its automatic rating system. Viewers are asked to explain their ratings to aid this process. Google has provided some guidelines for writing effective notes:
- Sources of Information: Indicate the source of any claims made.
- Neutral Judgment: Ensure the note is impartial and unbiased.
- Clarity: The note should be easy to understand.
- Context: Provide important context that is not included in the video.
- Relevance: The note should align with the thesis or title of the video.
Currently, this innovation is available to a limited number of smartphone users in the United States, adds NIXsolutions. For more details on the “Notes” feature, users can visit Google’s support page. The timeline for its public availability remains uncertain.
We’ll keep you updated on any further developments regarding this feature.