The largest video streaming platform “YouTube” is testing time-specific emoji reactions for a small group of channels. Currently, users can react to a video by either liking (thumbs up) and disliking (thumbs down) buttons or by leaving a comment. But, with the new features, YouTube viewers can throw out emoji reactions at any specific time based on how they feel.
There will be a separate reaction panel in the comment section of each video that will display emoji reactions by the timestamp. “The test also shows which moments other viewers are reacting to(which will be anonymized – we won’t show who sent each reaction). ” as per Meaghan.
If you’re using Twitch or Facebook Live, you are probably familiar with this feature. At the moment, YouTube is offering a set of eight reactions for viewers to choose from. Face with tears of joy, heart, Flushed Face, Party Popper, Keeping it real, Asking a Question, Light Bulb, and a Weary Cat Face. The company said, they are testing multiple sets of reactions and will add or remove emojis based on how the experiment goes.
YouTube goals with Testing Time Specific Emoji Reactions
YouTube says the goal is to bring more features that strengthen the sense of community on YouTube. While it may not be the feature the YouTube community was waiting for, it provides viewers with a new way to interact with videos. This feature will allow YouTube creators and the community to get feedback from users, such as highlighted parts and where the impact was highest. Furthermore, the company is yet to announce the list of channels or videos that are part of the experiment.
While YouTube frequently tests new features, they do not always become permanent. The feature is still in the testing phase. Emoji reactions have been a success for other social media apps. But whether the features will be permanent depends on feedback from test users.
