YouTube are testing new SoundCloud-like timed comments
Image Credit: YouTube
Found on a recent support page, YouTube appears to be experimenting with timestamped comments, similar to those on SoundCloud.
Testing new timed comments: We’re currently testing a new feature that allows you to view comments timed to the exact moment you’re watching in a video. This experiment is available on some videos to a small group of people and we’ll consider rolling this out more broadly based on feedback. To see if you’re part of the experiment, go to the comments section on iOS or Android, and tap the Sort button to select “Timed Beta”.
Jordan – Team YouTube
Currently on YouTube, viewers can type a timecode in the comments and this will automatically be hyperlinked, allowing those who click it to immediately jump to that part in the video.
On SoundCloud, all comments are linked to a specific time in the audio. This is great if the comment refers to a particular portion of the track and acts as a visual representation of how popular conversation is around a song, as well as the most impactful moments.
YouTube’s implementation of this feature sounds to be somewhat similar to SoundCloud’s, however this could be dangerous territory. YouTube’s filtering algorithm isn’t perfect and comment sections can be filled with harassment. Having hurtful comments more prominent needs to be avoided at all costs.
Last year, YouTube introduced ‘chapters’. This let creators split videos into skippable segments, by writing timestamps in the video description. Great for audiences who want to jump to an exact moment.
Allowing users to self-note highlights can make easier to find interesting pieces of news. I found this quite interesting and useful
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The screening mechanism on YouTube isn’t perfect, and there can be harassment in the comments. Putting offensive statements in a more prominent position must be avoided at all costs.
Hey,
We hate to see offensive comments anywhere, and completely agree that these should not be in the forefront (or anywhere online at all, in a perfect world!).
Hopefully online platforms can in time improve their screening algorithms, and provide fun and friendly places for people to share their interests with one another.
In the meantime we would recommend reporting any offensive or abusive comments.
The latest addition to SoundCloud is a feature called timed comments. The idea is that you can set a timer and leave a comment on a post, then wait for a specified period of time before replying. The idea is to encourage people to comment more frequently, since they know they’ll get a response sooner.
Nice! Have success with it.
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Thank you for your kind words!
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Thank you!
All comments on SoundCloud can be connected to a particular section of the music. Users will find this convenient.
This is a feature that I’ve wanted for a long time
This timed comment feature sounds amazing, Jordan! Like pinpoint accuracy for discussions. I envision sharing epic Snow Rider tricks, highlighting specific jumps with exact timestamps. Imagine the community engagement! Hoping the beta expands soon; the current hyperlink method is clunky. Great job, YouTube!