YouTube unveils five TV features to elevate creator content
YouTube has launched fresh tools that make videos look stunning on TV, easier to find, and even shoppable from the sofa.
YouTube has unveiled a wave of new features designed to make content shine on the biggest screen in the house – the TV. As viewing habits shift from phones to the living room, creators are seeing more opportunities than ever to connect with audiences through television.
According to YouTube, “the number of YouTube channels earning six figures or more in revenue from TV screens is up by over 45%” in the past year. With this rapid growth, the platform is introducing five new features to enhance how videos look, how they’re discovered, and how they drive viewer engagement.
Sharper visuals for a better first impression
The first two updates concern visual quality, which is absolutely key for viewers watching on a bigger screen.
Thumbnails
YouTube is expanding thumbnail file limits from 2MB to 50MB, allowing for eye-catching 4K-resolution thumbnails. This will help videos stand out on high-definition screens where every detail counts.
Video upscaling
Creators will also benefit from new AI-powered video upscaling. The feature can automatically enhance lower-resolution uploads, taking them from standard definition up to HD – and eventually, even 4K. YouTube confirmed that “creators will retain complete control over their library,” with the ability to opt out at any time. Viewers can still choose to watch in the original resolution if they prefer.
Improved TV browsing and channel discovery
Updated browsing display
YouTube isn’t stopping at visuals. It’s also reimagining how audiences browse and engage with creator channels on TV. Soon, viewers will be able to scroll through their favourite channels with immersive previews right from the homepage, making it easier to discover new videos and shows.
This isn’t the only display redesign YouTube has made. The recently updated Shows design lets creators group videos into themed collections, perfect for binge-worthy series or playlists.
Improved search
YouTube has also improved contextual search on TV. Now, when someone searches from within a creator’s channel page, those videos will appear at the top of results – rather than being lost among unrelated content.
Turning viewers into shoppers
Shopping on YouTube continues to grow, with over 35 billion hours of shopping-related videos watched in the last year. Soon, viewers watching on TV will be able to scan a QR code that instantly opens a product page on their phone.
YouTube is also testing the option to feature products at specific moments in a video, making it easier for viewers to act when interest is at its peak. These updates mean creators can better connect inspiration with action – or as YouTube puts it, help “drive conversions and grow their brands from the biggest screen in the home.”
YouTube calls the TV screen its “fastest-growing surface,” and these new features show just how committed the platform is to enhancing the creator experience. With sharper visuals, better discovery tools, and seamless shopping integration, the future of YouTube on TV looks brighter than ever.