YouTube is testing a new AI tool that brings smart search results to the platform. Similar to Google’s AI Overviews, this feature adds an “AI-powered search results carousel” to the app. It appears when some YouTube Premium users in the U.S. search for topics related to shopping, travel, or local activities.
YouTube Tests New AI-Powered Search Feature for Premium Users
Here’s how it works: When you search, a large video clip shows up first. Below that, you’ll see smaller thumbnails of related videos. The AI also generates a short text answer to match your search. If you want to watch the featured video, just tap the large clip at the top.
Right now, this feature is only available in English and works on iOS and Android devices. It’s part of a limited test that runs until July 30th, as noted on YouTube’s experiments page. Not everyone can use it. YouTube says only a randomly selected group of Premium members will get access during the test period.
YouTube isn’t stopping there. The company is also expanding its conversational AI tool. This tool lets you ask questions about a video and get real-time answers from an AI assistant. While it first launched in 2023 for Premium members, it’s now rolling out to some non-Premium users in the U.S. as well.
New YouTube Feature Uses AI to Improve Search Experience
These updates are part of YouTube’s broader push to include more AI features in the platform. The goal is to make video discovery and interaction easier and smarter. AI-generated responses can help users quickly understand video content or decide which one to watch.
By adding these tools, YouTube aims to improve how people explore topics on the app. Instead of scrolling through long lists of videos, users get a guided, visual summary right away. It’s a faster way to find what you’re looking for—whether that’s travel ideas, product reviews, or things to do in a new city.
As with any test, the company will likely gather feedback and make changes before a wider rollout. If successful, we could see these AI tools become standard features on YouTube in the near future.
