YouTube is introducing a new feature similar to X’s (formerly Twitter) Community Notes to combat misinformation, according to a report by 9to5Google. This feature enables users to add clarifying notes to videos that may be confusing or inaccurate. These notes undergo a review process by other users before appearing under the videos.
YouTube Introduces User-Powered Notes to Combat Misinformation
Announced by Google in June, this feature is now in an expanded testing phase. Selected users have been invited to participate in a pilot program, where they can "add helpful notes to videos" to enhance the information available to the YouTube community.
How the Feature Works
Users can sign up to submit notes on videos they find inaccurate or unclear. Once submitted, these notes are reviewed and rated by other users. A note is published only if it is deemed helpful by a broad range of reviewers. YouTube notifies users when their notes are published. Presently, this feature is accessible only on mobile devices.
Participants in the program will notice an "Add note" button beneath videos. Submitted notes must cite reliable sources, be easy to understand, neutral, and directly address claims made in the video or its title.
Writing Effective Notes
YouTube’s support page offers guidelines on how to write effective notes and what happens after submission. Key tips for writing notes include:
- Cite sources to support the note’s claims.
- Use clear, straightforward language.
- Maintain neutrality and avoid personal opinions.
- Provide essential context not present in the video, description, or title.
- Directly address claims made in the video or its title.
How to start
To write a note:
- Tap the “Add note” button under the video.
- Write your note in the provided text box.
- Tap “Send.”
Notes are anonymous; the channel name will not appear.
Availability
This program is currently invite-only. If the option to add a note is not visible, it may indicate that you are not eligible. Additionally, this feature is not available for videos featuring minors, content made for kids, or private videos.
The extent of the pilot program’s availability and the timeline for a broader rollout remain unclear.
By implementing this feature, YouTube aims to foster a more informed community and reduce the spread of misinformation on its platform.
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