YouTube Launches AI-Powered Search Features

YouTube is rolling out new AI-based features aimed at making video and information search more intuitive for users.

AI Carousel: How It Works
One of the key innovations is an AI-powered carousel with short summaries of topics generated by artificial intelligence. This carousel recommends relevant videos based on user queries and is currently available only to YouTube Premium subscribers in the U.S.

It appears during searches related to shopping, travel destinations, or local entertainment. For example, when searching for “best beaches in Hawaii,” the platform might suggest videos about snorkeling spots and volcanic beaches, accompanied by concise descriptions and links to related content.

Concerns from Content Creators
The feature resembles Google’s AI Overviews, which provide instant answers at the top of search results. Content creators fear that these summaries may reduce user engagement with actual videos, potentially affecting their view counts and revenue.

The launch follows a Wall Street Journal report noting how Google’s AI Overviews have significantly decreased traffic to news websites. YouTube creators now fear similar consequences.

Conversational AI Assistant on YouTube
YouTube is also expanding access to its conversational AI tool. Previously available only to Premium users, it's now rolling out to a broader audience. This assistant can:

• Recommend similar content

• Summarize videos

• Answer viewer questions

• Help with educational videos (e.g., generate quizzes)

For instance, if you're watching a roller skating video, the assistant can summarize it or suggest related tutorials. You can also ask, “What song is playing in this video?” and get the title, artist, and genre.

YouTube has not announced when these features will roll out globally.