Observed Signal · Aug 13, 2024 · Technical Release · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 4/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
YouTube tests longform in Shorts feed UX
YouTube is conducting a test that mixes formats by delivering longform videos within Shorts and by introducing Longform video discovery feeds. The experiment reportedly changes the Watch Page and the Shorts area, with longform and shortform content analyzed differently for discovery and engagement. Todd Sherman, Shorts Product Lead, notes that measurement and user interaction differ between longform and shortform content, driving the need for a mixed-format approach. The test, also reported by Lindsey Gamble, aims to expand content discovery to more creators and viewers, potentially boosting watch time and ad revenue. YouTube cites over two billion monthly active users and about $8.7 billion in ad revenue in the latest quarter. Creators are promised continued cross-channel recommendations and Shorts analytics in YouTube Studio. The changes are experimental and adoption will depend on feedback from creators and viewers; YouTube has previously indicated Shorts may not become longer formats.
Technical Release / Platform test from a major platform (YouTube) with potential impact on discovery and monetization.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- YouTube is testing a mix of formats by showcasing longform videos in Shorts and introducing Longform video feeds.
- Test users may see changes to the Watch Page and Shorts area as part of current experiments.
- Todd Sherman, Shorts Product Lead at YouTube, said longform and shortform engagement and measurement are different.
- Lindsey Gamble reported on the Longform-Video Feeds in YouTube's test.
- YouTube reports over 2 billion monthly active users and about $8.7 billion in advertising revenue in the most recent quarter.
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YouTube Tests Desktop Redesign Favoring Long-Form
YouTube is testing a desktop homepage redesign that elevates horizontal long-form videos into the most prominent positions on the web homepage while pushing the Shorts carousel further down the page. Early rows in the experiment show full-width thumbnails of longer videos occupying the first three horizontal scrolls; the mobile homepage remains largely unchanged with a prominent long-form video followed by a grid or carousel of six Shorts. The rollout is gradual and visible to select users across regions. Industry observers say the desktop pivot aims to better match desktop viewing behaviour, potentially increasing watch time and mid-roll ad revenue for long-form creators while reducing desktop discovery for Shorts. The article was published by Cord Cutters News on 2026-06-18.
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