YouTube Tests Voice Note Comments for Creators

YouTube Introduces Voice Note Comments for Creators

YouTube is currently testing a novel method for fostering interaction between content creators and their audience. The platform is enabling a select group of creators to share voice notes and respond to comments with audio messages, as was revealed on Monday.

Limited Initial Rollout

For the present time, the functionality to post voice notes is restricted to a specific cohort of creators located within the United States. YouTube clarifies that these voice-based responses can only be submitted via the iOS application, directly on the creator’s own channel.

Creators granted access to this feature will find a new soundwave icon available when composing a reply to a comment. Tapping this icon initiates recording, allowing them to deliver their response verbally and subsequently publish it as a comment.

Accessibility for All Users

Although only certain creators can originate voice comments, all YouTube users will have the capacity to listen to them. A transcript option will also be provided beneath each voice note, enabling users to read the comment's content without needing to play the audio.

YouTube expresses its anticipation that this trial will cultivate “more meaningful relationships” between creators and their fans moving forward.

Expanding Community Features

Throughout this year, YouTube has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing community and fan engagement tools. Earlier in March, creators were given the ability to distribute exclusive Shorts content to their subscribers.

Furthermore, in September, the platform launched a dedicated discussion area, resembling Discord, within each creator’s channel. This space is designed to facilitate conversations among a creator’s fanbase, particularly their subscribers.

This new feature builds upon these efforts to provide more interactive experiences on the platform.