YouTube begins testing updated interface for computers

YouTube has expanded testing of a new interface for the browser version of the service on computers. This was reported by the Android Authority publication.

In the updated version, the block with comments, video description, and interactive tabs has been moved to a sidebar to the right of the player. Recommended videos are now located directly under the playback window in the form of a grid of large thumbnails.

Users on the Reddit platform criticized the changes. Viewers complained that the narrow sidebar is inconvenient for reading, large cards under the player distract from watching long videos, and it has become harder to avoid spoilers in the comments on the right. Some users have started using browser extensions and uBlock Origin filters to return to the previous page view.

The platform has not officially announced whether this layout will become permanent. Similar testing was already conducted in 2024 among Premium subscribers, but the service abandoned the innovation after negative reviews.