YouTube is taking its search experience to the next level with the rollout of two artificial intelligence-powered features designed to help users find information faster and engage more deeply with content. The video giant announced in an official blog post that it is testing an “AI carousel” for search results and expanding access to its conversational AI assistant, marking the latest in a series of experiments aimed at enhancing the way people discover and learn from videos on the platform.
AI Carousel Promises Smarter, Faster Search Results
One of the most notable updates is the new AI-powered search results carousel, which YouTube hopes will streamline how users find relevant information on topics ranging from shopping to travel. When searching for phrases like “best beaches in Hawaii” or other topics related to local activities, select users will see a scrollable carousel of video clips appear at the top of their search results.
This carousel, curated by AI, features video clips with brief, AI-generated summaries highlighting the content of each video. By tapping on the large clip displayed at the top of the carousel, users can access the full video instantly, without having to scroll through or open multiple videos. The goal, according to YouTube, is to help users save time and discover information more efficiently.
The AI carousel is currently being tested with select YouTube Premium members in the US and is available in English on the YouTube app for Android and iOS. The Verge reported that the feature will remain in testing until July 30, after which YouTube will evaluate its effectiveness before considering a broader rollout.
Conversational AI Tool Expands to More Users
Beyond search improvements, YouTube is also expanding the reach of its conversational AI tool, which has been in limited use since 2023. Originally available only to Premium subscribers, the feature allows users to ask questions about a video, receive recommendations for related content, or quiz themselves while watching educational material.
Now, YouTube says it is extending access to this feature to some non-Premium users in the US, marking a significant step towards democratising advanced AI tools for the broader user base.
This AI chatbot, which appears beneath certain videos, functions like a smart assistant. For example, a user watching a cooking tutorial could ask the chatbot for alternative recipes, nutritional details, or even related dishes to try. In educational contexts, it can provide quizzes or deeper explanations, effectively turning passive viewing into an interactive learning experience.
Part of YouTube’s Bigger AI Strategy
These new tools are part of YouTube’s ongoing push to integrate artificial intelligence more deeply into its platform, with the stated aim of helping users “dive deeper into topics and learn more through video.”
YouTube has been gradually experimenting with AI-powered features in recent years. The conversational assistant, introduced in 2023, has been one of its first forays into making videos more interactive. With the launch of the AI carousel, the company is taking another significant step by applying AI to the core experience of video discovery.
While both features are still in the experimental stage, YouTube says they represent its commitment to enhancing the platform’s educational and discovery potential through AI.
Implications for the Future of Video Search and Learning
If successful, these features could transform the way users interact with YouTube. By combining quick, AI-generated summaries with conversational tools, YouTube aims to make its platform not only a source of entertainment but also a more effective space for learning and information gathering.
The rollout comes amid intensifying competition among tech giants seeking to integrate AI into search, with Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI all racing to redefine how people find and consume information online.
As these YouTube experiments continue through July, users should expect to see more AI-driven enhancements across the platform, especially on mobile devices. If the company’s gamble on AI pays off, the humble video search bar could soon become a powerful gateway to smarter, faster, and more interactive learning.
