# A Contemporary Upgrade: How YouTube’s Redesign Might Transform the Mobile Experience
YouTube, the leading platform for video sharing globally, is reportedly experimenting with a new look for its mobile application that could greatly improve user engagement, especially for those with larger devices such as tablets and foldables. This modest redesign seeks to refresh the app’s landscape orientation, tackling persistent problems related to unused screen space and boosting content visibility. Here’s an in-depth exploration of the features of this redesign and its potential impact on mobile users.
—
## **Essential Information**
– YouTube is assessing a new landscape layout for its mobile app, specifically designed for larger devices like tablets and foldables.
– The redesign minimizes redundant screen space, optimizing the usage of the available display area.
– Updates feature a more structured organization for subscriptions, video thumbnails, and Shorts.
– The modifications are still being tested and may be made available to select users prior to a wider rollout.
—
## **New Aesthetic for Landscape Orientation**
This redesign was first uncovered by X (formerly Twitter) insider AssembleDebug during an APK disassembly, as reported by *Android Authority*. The fresh layout is designed for larger screen devices, including foldable phones and tablets, although it may also enhance the experience for conventional mobile devices.
One of the standout adjustments is the relocation of the subscriptions list. In the updated layout, the channels users subscribe to are placed on the left side of the screen, with an “All Channels” button beside them. This button allows users to explore their subscriptions in a more thorough manner, presumably arranged by upload date. This change not only streamlines the interface but also facilitates easier navigation through favorite channels.
—
## **Optimizing Screen Space**
An ongoing issue with the existing landscape orientation of YouTube is the inadequate use of screen area. In the current configuration, video thumbnails are positioned on the left, with titles, channel identifiers, view counts, and upload timings on the right. Nevertheless, a considerable portion of the display remains unoccupied, leading to an unattractive visual experience.
The redesigned configuration tackles this concern by pairing videos, effectively doubling the content viewable on the screen. Shorts, YouTube’s response to TikTok-like vertical videos, are also given more visibility. Even in their vertical format, the new orientation showcases multiple Shorts in sequence, simplifying the browsing experience.
—
## **Enhanced Channel Navigation**
The redesign also applies to individual channel pages. When users click on a subscribed channel, they will encounter an interface reminiscent of the updated subscriptions page. A “View channel” button positioned beneath the channel name offers quick access to the creator’s complete content library. Although specific details regarding the channel designs remain undisclosed, it is likely that the new layout will ensure consistency throughout the app.
—
## **Progress Towards Desktop-Like Features**
The enhancements in YouTube’s mobile app seem to bring it into closer alignment with the desktop interface. On desktop, YouTube has already rolled out updates that highlight the description box and other video specifics. The new mobile layout could introduce comparable functionalities, enhancing versatility and user-friendliness.
—
## **User Feedback and Future Implementation**
YouTube’s redesign initiatives have not always been greeted with excitement. Earlier this year, the platform tested a new video page format for desktops, which led to backlash from users across social media. However, the existing mobile redesign addresses functional challenges like unused space and navigation, which may enhance its appeal to users.
Currently, the revised landscape orientation is still being tested, available within YouTube version 19.50.36. A select group of users might gain early access to the layout before a broader release takes place. If successful, this update could establish a new benchmark for mobile video applications, particularly on larger devices.
—
## **Significance of This Development**
YouTube’s mobile application has remained largely stagnant in visual design over recent years. Although new features such as engaging video pages and highlighted comment sections have been introduced, the overall layout has not adapted to the changing requirements of contemporary devices. This redesign marks a critical advancement, offering a more refined and efficient user engagement.
For content creators, these adjustments could translate to greater visibility for their videos, especially in the subscriptions and Shorts categories. For viewers, the redesign holds the promise of a more intuitive and pleasing way to discover and enjoy videos.
—
## **Future Outlook**
While the new layout is still undergoing testing, it is evident that YouTube is dedicated to enhancing its mobile platform. By addressing enduring issues and tailoring the app for larger screens, the platform is setting itself up to maintain its leadership in the highly competitive arena of video streaming.
As the redesign becomes available to a wider audience, it will be intriguing to observe user reactions and whether it inspires additional updates throughout the app. For the moment, this subtle redesign is a hopeful preview of YouTube’s mobile future.
