YouTube has begun a broad rollout of a system for content and private messaging within its application. This feature, which operates privately and was initially launched in Europe last November, is now being made available in additional regions.
A distinctive aspect of this system, as reported by 9to5Google, is its private contact addition mechanism. This means that initiating a conversation with another user is only possible after sending them a unique URL via external platforms. The invitation link remains valid for seven days, and upon clicking it, the recipient must explicitly consent to the conversation through an on-screen option to prevent receiving messages from unknown individuals. Access to these exchanges is facilitated through a new icon located in the upper right corner of the interface.
This tool is exclusively intended for adult users (18 years and older) and is primarily designed for sharing video content. Within these chats, users can forward standard videos, live streams, Shorts, and videos accessible via a link. However, the transmission of entirely private content is not supported. For enhanced user experience, the developers have incorporated a menu of available contacts directly into the standard “Share” button.
All shared materials and text messages are subject to the platform’s general community guidelines. Participants are equipped with fundamental moderation tools, including the ability to delete sent messages, block conversational partners, and submit reports. The application notifies users of new messages through push notifications.
Following its European testing phase, the feature has become accessible in the United States, the United Kingdom, Brazil, and Singapore. Notably, during the testing period, YouTube indicated that this functionality had been offered previously and was “one of the most requested” before its removal in 2019.
About the Author
