YouTube is reintroducing its in-app private messaging feature, currently undergoing testing with a select group of users. This marks a significant return for a functionality that was discontinued in 2019, addressing what the company describes as a "top feature request" from its community.
The test is presently available to users aged 18 and older in Ireland and Poland. Participants can now share various forms of content, including long-form videos, Shorts, and even live streams, directly within the mobile application. This eliminates the need to rely on external platforms like text messages, email, WhatsApp, or Instagram DMs for sharing YouTube content.
Users with access to the feature can tap the Share button to initiate a full-screen chat directly within the app. This allows for private one-on-one conversations or group chats, where friends can respond with their own videos, type text replies, or use emojis to interact.
The original private messaging feature was removed in 2019, with speculation at the time pointing to underutilization and potential concerns related to younger users and content moderation. Platforms like YouTube often face scrutiny regarding inappropriate content and safeguarding children from predatory behavior.
It appears these past concerns have influenced the current rollout. By restricting the test to adult users (18+) in specific regions, YouTube is likely taking a cautious approach. This demographic restriction may also inform future decisions if the feature is expanded more broadly.
To ensure a safe environment, YouTube is implementing several standard safety features. Users must send invites to each other before initiating a chat, and they will have the ability to unsend messages, block other users, and report conversations. Furthermore, YouTube will review all messages to ensure they adhere to the same Community Guidelines that apply to videos and comments across the platform.
