YouTube tests bringing back direct messages, a ‘top feature request’
November 20, 2025
YouTube is embarking on an innovative journey by testing a new feature that allows users to engage in direct messaging within its mobile app. This initiative aims to enhance the way users share videos and converse about them, marking a significant evolution in the platform’s social interaction capabilities.
According to a recent update on their support page, YouTube is rolling out this feature to users aged 18 and older, specifically in Ireland and Poland. This move comes in response to a popular demand from users who have long sought a more integrated way to discuss content directly on the platform. Notably, YouTube had previously offered a messaging feature but discontinued it in 2019.
Testing new ways to share videos on YouTube: We’re experimenting with a new feature that makes it easy for you to share videos you love (long-form, Shorts, and live streams) and have conversations about them directly on the YouTube mobile app. This experiment is rolling out to adults 18 years or older in Ireland and Poland. This has been a top feature request, so we’re excited to test this out and hear your feedback!
For those participating in the trial, the messaging feature will allow users to share videos seamlessly while still retaining the option to share through other applications. However, it is important to note that all messages sent through YouTube will be subject to review to ensure compliance with the platform’s Community Guidelines. This includes monitoring for content that may pose real-world harm, similar to the scrutiny applied to videos and comments.
Users must send invites to each other to initiate conversations.
Invitations can be declined, and users have the ability to block or report conversations as necessary.
As of now, the timeline for a broader rollout remains uncertain, but the feature is officially available to select users in Ireland and Poland starting today. This development raises the question: will users embrace direct messaging on YouTube as a new avenue for interaction?
More on YouTube:
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YouTube tests bringing back direct messages, a ‘top feature request’
YouTube is embarking on an innovative journey by testing a new feature that allows users to engage in direct messaging within its mobile app. This initiative aims to enhance the way users share videos and converse about them, marking a significant evolution in the platform’s social interaction capabilities.
According to a recent update on their support page, YouTube is rolling out this feature to users aged 18 and older, specifically in Ireland and Poland. This move comes in response to a popular demand from users who have long sought a more integrated way to discuss content directly on the platform. Notably, YouTube had previously offered a messaging feature but discontinued it in 2019.
For those participating in the trial, the messaging feature will allow users to share videos seamlessly while still retaining the option to share through other applications. However, it is important to note that all messages sent through YouTube will be subject to review to ensure compliance with the platform’s Community Guidelines. This includes monitoring for content that may pose real-world harm, similar to the scrutiny applied to videos and comments.
As of now, the timeline for a broader rollout remains uncertain, but the feature is officially available to select users in Ireland and Poland starting today. This development raises the question: will users embrace direct messaging on YouTube as a new avenue for interaction?
More on YouTube:
Follow Ben: Twitter/X, Threads, Bluesky, and Instagram
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links.