TikTok has undeniably transformed the landscape of video consumption, introducing a dynamic feature that has caught the attention of its competitors: the swipe-up gesture. This design element was swiftly adopted by Instagram with the launch of its TikTok-inspired Reels, as well as by YouTube Shorts, both of which primarily focus on vertical video formats.
Potential Changes in YouTube’s Video Player
In a surprising development, it appears that YouTube is exploring the possibility of integrating the swipe-up feature into its standard video player, traditionally designed for horizontal viewing. This potential shift was first highlighted by Digital Trends contributor Tushar Mehta, who took to X to share his observations regarding the change on Android devices. His query, “who would want to scroll on a long-form video?” resonates with many users who are accustomed to a different interaction style.
The response to this potential alteration has been overwhelmingly negative, as indicated by various reactions on social media. One user expressed their frustration, stating it was enough to prompt them to seek validation on Twitter, while another found the situation “genuinely hilarious.” Mehta himself humorously questioned the rationale behind such a decision, suggesting it might not justify the salaries of the engineers involved.
As of now, this change remains an unofficial test, with YouTube yet to provide any formal commentary on the matter. The feature has only been observed in a limited capacity on Android, leaving many to wonder whether Google intends to implement it more broadly in the future.
TikTok, YouTube
