YouTube explores AI-generated Summaries feature for its videos

YouTube had previously refrained from implementing features powered by generative AI, but many smartphone applications now do so in various ways. The site already makes use of AI to generate insightful subtitles, but it has recently begun using generative AI to create written summaries for its videos. 

The summary feature is similar to a Chrome extension that debuted in May 2023. However, this summary option is actually a product of YouTube's own AI and displays in search results next to a video rather than in a separate sidebar.

YouTube plans to ease video options for users 

YouTube  recently stated that it is currently testing AI-generated summaries on a support page for its most current experimental features. Video summaries, on the other hand, are meant to accomplish a different goal than traditional summaries, which try to shorten long content to make it easier to read. By offering succinct summaries of the videos, YouTube hopes to assist users in choosing the most interesting ones to watch.  

The creator-written video descriptions will continue to be used alongside the AI-generated summaries. Instead, they will act as a substitute tool that allows users to get the essence of the video. 

As per the information, the summaries created by AI won't take the place of the producers' own descriptions of the videos. The videos that will receive these summaries, the individuals who will see them, and the format of the summaries have not yet been disclosed by YouTube. 

AI-generated summaries now have limited accessibility 

These AI-generated summaries were first made available on Monday, although they are now only accessible through a small number of English-language videos. Moreover,  YouTube is experimenting with a new feature that would let mobile users make Shorts.

It comes after a number of other recent adjustments at the video platform. YouTube unveiled an AI voice dubbing function last month that lets viewers listen to videos in their native tongue. 

Additionally, YouTube recently increased the cost of its Premium subscription, which upset many of its members. Moreover, the Google owned platform introduced a number of new, unrelated to AI, features early this year, including better video quality, increased control over the video queue, and intelligent downloads for offline viewing.