AI summaries being tested in YouTube search; get information without opening the video
Published 2 hours ago | By Nouman Shakeel
YouTube is testing a new search experience for desktop users, which may display AI-generated summaries above the video search results. The goal of this feature is to provide users with key information related to their queries before they even open a video.
This new tool, dubbed "Ask YouTube," allows users to pose questions to an AI. YouTube has previously introduced this feature for mobile users, and it is now being tested on the desktop platform.
Testing Underway in the United States
According to YouTube, the feature is currently being tested on a limited basis among select users in the United States. This phase is restricted to users who are signed into their accounts and conducting searches in English.
Under this new experience, for certain queries, an AI-generated detailed overview may appear at the top of the search page instead of the traditional list of videos. This feature could be particularly useful for queries involving "how-to" instructions, seeking guidance, or learning new skills—for instance, finding out how to remove stains from walls.
Summaries Will Include Key Segments from Videos
The AI-generated overview may include a written explanation alongside relevant video segments and their corresponding timestamps. This allows users to jump directly to the specific part of a video that contains the answer to their question, rather than having to watch the entire video.
Users can click "Show more" to expand the initial summary for further detail. Additionally, they will be able to ask the AI follow-up questions. However, those who wish to see standard search results instead of AI-generated answers can scroll down the page to reach the list of traditional videos.
