YouTube has introduced two new experimental features for its Premium users, designed to make consuming content on mobile devices easier. The most notable addition is On-the-Go, which transforms the user interface to allow safer management of videos and podcasts even when on the move.
Many people listen to podcasts or other programs from YouTube during a walk or commute. Until now, managing the video has required precision, as the interface buttons have been small and surrounded by distracting elements, such as comments.
The new On-the-Go mode is specifically designed to bring relief to such situations. Its simplified mode offers large and easy-to-hit buttons for playback, rewinding, and pausing.
On Android phones, YouTube can automatically suggest turning on the mode if the device's motion sensors detect that the user has been moving (for example, walking) for at least 60 seconds.
In addition, unnecessary visual elements, such as comments, are hidden so that the user can focus on listening and easier control.
The feature can also be turned on manually via video settings. Google states that the feature is only available for Android.
Another new experiment is Auto Speed. It is an AI-based function that dynamically adjusts video playback speed according to the content.
The purpose of the feature is to save the user's time: it speeds up the video in parts where speech is slow or the amount of information is low, but keeps the speed normal in important or complex sections. The user can set their desired base speed, and the system handles the rest. Currently, Auto Speed only works with English-language videos on Android and iOS.
According to YouTube, both features are experimental and will be available to Premium subscribers until April 27, 2026. After this, Google will decide, based on user feedback, whether the features will remain part of the application or be removed.
Premium users can enable the functions through YouTube settings under "Premium benefits".
The new On-the-Go mode is specifically designed to bring relief to such situations. Its simplified mode offers large and easy-to-hit buttons for playback, rewinding, and pausing.
On Android phones, YouTube can automatically suggest turning on the mode if the device's motion sensors detect that the user has been moving (for example, walking) for at least 60 seconds.
In addition, unnecessary visual elements, such as comments, are hidden so that the user can focus on listening and easier control.
The feature can also be turned on manually via video settings. Google states that the feature is only available for Android.
Another new experiment is Auto Speed. It is an AI-based function that dynamically adjusts video playback speed according to the content.
The purpose of the feature is to save the user's time: it speeds up the video in parts where speech is slow or the amount of information is low, but keeps the speed normal in important or complex sections. The user can set their desired base speed, and the system handles the rest. Currently, Auto Speed only works with English-language videos on Android and iOS.
According to YouTube, both features are experimental and will be available to Premium subscribers until April 27, 2026. After this, Google will decide, based on user feedback, whether the features will remain part of the application or be removed.
Premium users can enable the functions through YouTube settings under "Premium benefits".
