Image credit: Bhautik Patel

YouTube have introduced two new AI updates that enhance search results and take viewers on to discover new content.

Whilst concerns over AI content rage on around the internet, including on YouTube, artificial intelligence is helping make searches better. At least, that’s what YouTube is hoping with their two new AI additions to search.

First up, are AI-powered carousels which may appear at the top of search results for certain topics. The carousel will display a series of videos that AI has decided are the most relevant to your search query. Users can swipe through them, seeing previews and an AI-generated summary.

YouTube write: “Imagine searching for ‘best beaches in Hawaii’ – you could see an AI-generated carousel highlighting clips from videos showcasing the best snorkel spots and volcanic beaches, complete with descriptions and more videos to plan your ideal day.”

Viewers can tap through the carousel to preview different video options or let YouTube automatically play through their previews. As with a regular search result, viewers can simply tap on a video to load it up fully and watch it the whole way through.

YouTube state that the feature is available for Premium members in the U.S. now. Users can try it on searches related to shopping, travel, and things to do in specific places.

Next up is their conversational AI tool, which will be expanding to some non-Premium subscribed users in the US over the next few days. The AI-powered chatbot is available under videos from an ‘Ask’ button.

In the chat, viewers can ask questions about the video, key concepts explored in the content, and find recommendations for similar content. The interactivity of the AI promises to make it easier to explore YouTube content in more detail without having to leave the app.

YouTube promise that more AI implementations are on the way. However, not all users are happy. A comment by user JCM718 on the search feature’s announcement reads: “We’d actually rather you stop allowing AI slop on the platform, focus on real creators, and get the bots out of the comments. We don’t need a search carousel. It’s hard to find things because you embrace this crap technology.”