YouTube Revives Direct Messaging for Videos, Shorts, and Live Streams in Limited Test
MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA – YouTube is once again testing direct messaging functionality within it’s mobile app, allowing users to discuss videos, Shorts, and live streams directly with each other. The feature,a response to long-standing user requests,is currently rolling out to adults aged 18 and older in Ireland and poland.
This isn’t the first time YouTube has experimented with direct messaging; a previous iteration was discontinued in 2016.The current test focuses on facilitating conversation about content shared on the platform, rather than general chat. Users will need to send and accept invites before initiating a conversation, and have the option to decline invites, block users, and report conversations.
According to a YouTube support page, all messages will be subject to the platform’s Community Guidelines, with systems in place to scan for policy violations, including content that could cause harm. Users can still share youtube videos through other messaging apps.
The rollout timeframe for wider availability remains unclear, but the test begins today in Ireland and Poland.
