YouTube announced an update for its Connected TV viewing experience, which will enable viewers to use their phones to control what they see on their YouTube-connected TV sets.
That could make it much easier to interact with YouTube content without having to use a TV remote or gaming controller to switch through various functions and options.
As explained by YouTube: “We’ve heard from many of you that the TV is your favorite place to watch YouTube, but some features like typing out comments, reading a description, or subscribing to a channel can be tricky when you’re only using a standard remote. This update lets you take full advantage of your engagement features (e.g., comments, descriptions) without interrupting content playing on your TV.”
The updated app connectivity option will include synced access to various functionalities, including comments and likes. Users will also be able to subscribe to channels while watching their TV screens.
YouTube said that TV viewers will also be able to continue checking out other elements of the YouTube app while they watch their TVs, meaning they can search for videos or watch Shorts. They will also be able to send videos to their TV straight from their homepage feed.
“Just tap the three-dot menu next to any video title and select ‘Play on different device,’” YouTube said.
YouTube added that TV viewers will no longer need to share a Wi-Fi network or manually connect their phones to their TVs in order to view YouTube on both devices at the same time.
Connected TV viewing has been a big growth driver for YouTube, with people now watching more than a billion hours of YouTube content on their home TV sets every day.
In line with this, YouTube has recently rolled out a steady stream of CTV updates, including podcast viewing options, account locking controls and TV-style stations that show a constant stream of videos from a specific channel.
The company has also steadily expanded access to its artificial intelligence-powered search tools on smart TVs.
That functionality is available to smart TV users who have microphones in their TV remote, though with this update, a lot more people will be able to utilize advanced functions of this type without needing the latest model smart TV.
Being able to use their phones could be a valuable addition for users, and with more people viewing YouTube content on their TV sets, it’s a logical improvement for the platform.
