YouTube Premium subscribers can get access to a new suite of experimental features. These optional features, which can all be activated simultaneously, are designed to enhance the viewing experience with new tools and functionalities. YouTube has revealed some details about these experimental features that will offer Premium subscribers exclusive benefits and early access to new features.
These features include Jump Ahead, High-Quality Audio, PiP mode for Shorts on iPhones and more.
New experimental features for YouTube Premium users
Here are all the details about the new experimental features that YouTube Premium subscribers can now access:
Feature
| Availability
| Description
| Platform
|
Jump Ahead Web
| Until Feb 5
| Allows Premium users to skip forward to desired content faster.
| Web
|
High-Quality Audio
| Until Feb 22
| Enhances music listening experience with better audio quality.
| iOS, Android
|
Shorts Picture-in-Picture
| Until Feb 19
| Enables Shorts to continue playing in a floating window when switching apps.
| iOS
|
Shorts Smart Downloads
| Until Feb 19
| Automatically download recommended Shorts for offline viewing.
| iOS
|
Faster Speeds
| Until Feb 26
| Expands playback speed options up to 4x for more precise control.
| iOS, Android
|
YouTube Premium subscribers can now enjoy high-quality audio up to 256kbps on supported music videos, making it ideal for those who prefer streaming music directly on YouTube. Premium subscribers can also play audio in the background with the screen off.
Additionally, YouTube is expanding playback speed options. While the platform currently supports speeds up to 2x, it will now allow mobile users to increase playback speeds up to 4x. Another enhancement, Jump Ahead, is now available on the web, enabling users to skip directly to key parts of a video.
YouTube Premium subscribers can activate these new features by visiting the activation page. Since these enhancements are available for a limited time, users are encouraged to take advantage of them while they last.
Google is also seeking user feedback on YouTube and other products to enhance their features and functionality. Interested participants can sign up to provide input. If a study aligns with their profile, they will receive a follow-up questionnaire along with details about the study, including the next steps and location. Upon completing the study, participants will receive a gift card as a token of appreciation for their time.