YouTube is Testing New Timed Comments in Video Playback to Provide More Context and Maximize Engagem
A new article on Social Media Today says that YouTube is testing a new comment display option, which will show viewer comments at specific, timed points within the playback, which could provide more context on their intention and meaning, while also highlighting where the best conversation is happening around each clip.
The new timed comment display will bring up viewer comments at the point in which they were made during the clip. As explained by YouTube:
Not everyone can access the option as yet. To check if you're in the test group, go to the comments section within the YouTube app (on iOS or Android) and tap the 'Sort' button at the bottom right of the playback window. If you have access, you'll see the "Timed Beta" option in the list.
This is very similar to the old SoundCloud type comment display, which enables listeners to share their enthusiasm about certain elements of each track. Will that inspire more engagement on YouTube clips? It's hard to say, but it's certainly an interesting option, which could have value in inspiring viewer behavior, and engagement. It could also provide more insight as to what viewers are engaging with most on your video clips.
The new timed comment display will bring up viewer comments at the point in which they were made during the clip. As explained by YouTube:
| "We're currently testing a new feature that allows you to view comments timed to the exact moment you're watching in a video. This experiment is available on some videos to a small group of people and we'll consider rolling this out more broadly based on feedback." |
This is very similar to the old SoundCloud type comment display, which enables listeners to share their enthusiasm about certain elements of each track. Will that inspire more engagement on YouTube clips? It's hard to say, but it's certainly an interesting option, which could have value in inspiring viewer behavior, and engagement. It could also provide more insight as to what viewers are engaging with most on your video clips.
