YouTube launches Community tools to go ‘beyond video’

YouTube has launched a beta version of the new product that it says will help “strengthen the bond” between video creators and their viewers, and help them go “beyond video”.

The new YouTube Community tab on video makers’ YouTube channels will let users engage their viewers by posting messages, live videos, images and animated GIFs.

YouTube described the social tools as “easier, lightweight” ways to engage fans in real time, between video uploads. Viewers will be able to see posts in their subscriptions feed on their phones and can also opt-in to get notifications.

“Community is a special release for us because it represents the deepest product collaboration we’ve ever done with creators like you. We started by inviting creators in early to develop, in partnership with us, the tools they wanted to better engage with their fans,” said YouTube senior product manager, Kiley McEvoy.

The YouTube Community beta rolls out to selected content makers this week. Following creator and fan feedback, YouTube said it will roll out the new features to more content makers in the coming months.

“As creators, your ideas and feedback shape our platform, inspire new features, and help us decide what to prioritise. It’s you who ultimately build YouTube and as the new Community product shows, together, we make YouTube better for everyone,” said McEvoy.