YouTube has recently introduced a new feature that has left many scratching their heads. This accessibility option, currently in the rollout phase, is specifically designed for YouTube Shorts but is not universally available just yet. While it may seem intriguing, there are compelling reasons to think twice before activating it.
A clumsy approach to accessibility?
Discovered by Android Authority while testing on devices like the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and OnePlus 13, this feature allows users to watch YouTube Shorts in landscape mode on their smartphones. However, it’s advisable for most users to hold off on enabling this option. If curiosity gets the better of you, here’s how to give it a try:
- Open the YouTube app and tap on your profile icon located in the bottom-right corner.
- In the top right-hand corner, select the gear icon.
- Scroll down to the “Video and Audio Preferences” section in Settings.
- Choose the submenu labeled “Accessibility.”
- In the “Accessibility” menu, toggle the switch for “Rotate Shorts.”
Once activated, this feature automatically shifts to landscape mode when you rotate your smartphone. It appears to be an attempt to enhance user experience, supplementing the existing automatic rotation feature found on all Android devices. However, given that YouTube Shorts are primarily designed for vertical viewing—akin to TikTok—this new landscape mode presents a unique challenge.
With smartphone screens typically measuring less than 7 inches diagonally, viewing Shorts in landscape mode results in a diminutive display, often surrounded by black bands that waste valuable screen real estate. While some ads may fill the screen, the overall experience leaves much to be desired.
The rationale behind this feature remains unclear, as there has been no official communication from Google. Speculation suggests it may cater to users with reduced mobility who prefer watching videos on a smartphone mounted in landscape orientation. The placement of this option within the accessibility sub-menu hints at a thoughtful intention, yet it seems oddly tailored for smartphone viewing of Shorts. YouTube is anticipated to address landscape mode for foldable smartphones and tablets by the end of 2024.
Nonetheless, the introduction of a feature that many find perplexing raises questions about its practicality. Viewing Shorts in landscape mode appears to serve little purpose, and even the accessibility angle seems to lose its significance. Does complicating the viewing experience truly enhance accessibility?
On a lighter note, this landscape mode might inadvertently discourage excessive scrolling, and it could bring a smile to the few Sony Xperia enthusiasts, as this format aligns perfectly with their 16:9 screens.
What do you think this function for rotating Shorts in landscape mode would be suitable for? Is it available in your YouTube application?
Source: Android Authority
