YouTube is bringing back private messaging inside its mobile app, six years after removing the feature. The company has started testing a new video-sharing and chat tool for users aged 18 and above in Ireland and Poland. This test allows people to share long videos, Shorts, and live streams directly within the YouTube app, making it easier to discuss content without switching to other apps like WhatsApp or Instagram.
The new feature works through a full-screen chat window that appears when users tap the Share button on any video. From there, users can start one-on-one chats or group conversations. They can send videos, text messages, or even reply with emojis. YouTube designed this tool to meet one of the most common requests from its users, offering a smoother way to share and talk about content inside the platform.
Safety is a major focus for YouTube with this new feature. All messages must follow the platform’s Community Guidelines, and the company may scan or review chats that could potentially break rules or cause harm. Users cannot start a conversation without first accepting a chat invite.
They also have the ability to block channels, report chats, or unsend messages. Notifications for new messages appear alongside regular YouTube alerts, keeping users informed without leaving the app.
YouTube’s previous messaging system was discontinued in 2019. While the company did not give a full explanation, many believe child safety was a key reason behind the decision. This time, the test is limited to adults to reduce risk and help YouTube collect data on how people use the feature. By starting in select countries, the platform can monitor activity in a controlled environment and ensure strong safety measures are in place before considering a wider rollout.
The move also reflects a broader trend in tech platforms. Spotify introduced a similar private messaging feature earlier this year, showing that companies want to keep users engaged within their own apps. Instead of switching between different apps to share content and chat, users can now do everything in one place.
Depending on the results of this limited test, YouTube may expand the feature to more countries in the future. For now, it offers a new way for adults to interact, share videos, and have conversations while staying safe. This testing phase will help YouTube understand how people use private messaging and what improvements might be needed before a wider release.
YouTube’s new chat and video-sharing feature marks an important step in making the platform more interactive while keeping safety a top priority.
As this feature gains traction, other players in the video-sharing space like Rumble Inc. (NASDAQ: RUM) are likely to come up with their own iterations to stay ahead of their competitors.
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