YouTube Introduces AI-Powered Search Results Carousel for Easier Content Discovery

YouTube is introducing new AI-powered features to assist users in finding content and information more efficiently. The platform is launching an AI-powered search results carousel, similar to Google's AI Overviews, and is testing conversational AI with a wider audience.

The AI-powered search results carousel, exclusive to YouTube Premium users in the United States, will suggest videos and show brief AI-generated topic descriptions to aid users in quickly finding what they are looking for.

YouTube mentions that the carousel will appear in searches related to shopping, places, or activities at a specific location. For instance, a search for 'best beaches in Hawaii' will display a carousel with clips from videos showcasing snorkel spots and volcanic beaches, along with descriptions and additional videos to assist in vacation planning.

The new feature resembles Google's AI Overviews, which offer AI-generated summaries of search results at the top of Google Search pages. While the AI-powered carousel will enhance user discovery, it may impact creators who rely on engagement for revenue, as users might find the necessary information directly from the carousel without clicking into the video.

The introduction of the AI-powered search results carousel follows a report by the Wall Street Journal indicating that Google's AI tools are reducing traffic for news publishers. YouTube creators may worry that this new feature could decrease engagement with their videos, similar to the impact of AI Overviews on Google Search.

Regarding YouTube's conversational AI tool, the platform is extending its availability to some non-Premium users. Launched in late 2023, this tool uses AI to provide users with more information, content recommendations, and video summaries. It can also be used for self-quizzing on key concepts in academic videos.

According to the source: TechCrunch.