YouTube rolls out audio-first 'on-the-go mode' and AI speed controls for Premium subscribers

Stevie Bonifield

3d ago· 2 min readenNews

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· 2 sources

YouTube is rolling out new podcast-focused features for Premium subscribers, including an audio-first "on-the-go mode" that shifts the app to a simplified layout with a still image and auto-activates when movement is detected, as reported by The Verge. The update also includes an AI-powered "auto speed" feature that adjusts playback speed, and an AI recommendation tool for personalized discovery, according to bsky. The features launched on Android today, with iOS support coming later, as part of YouTube's strategy to compete with platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

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Summary

YouTube is rolling out new features for Premium subscribers that make the platform more podcast-friendly. An "on-the-go mode" shifts YouTube to an audio-first layout with simplified playback controls and a still image instead of video, and can auto-activate when the app detects movement. Additionally, an auto speed feature uses AI to adjust playback speed. The features launch on Android today, with iOS support coming later.

Key quotes

· 3 pulled

A new 'on-the-go mode' shifts YouTube into an audio-first layout, with larger, simplified playback buttons, a still image in place of the video, and a timeline showing video chapters.

YouTube says you can turn on this new mode in a video's settings — a pop up will also appear if YouTube detects you're moving around while watching a video.

If you like to speed up your podcasts to get through episodes faster, YouTube's new auto speed...

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New YouTube Premium features could make YouTube better for listening to podcasts, with audio-first controls and AI-automated playback speed.

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