YouTube is exploring new vertical scroll gestures for its mobile app, which could transform how users navigate and engage with content.
The test involves altering the actions linked to swipe-up and swipe-down gestures in fullscreen mode on the app. This development introduces another layer of functionality following speculation about new features for controlling video playback speed on Android and iOS.
Swiping up on a video in YouTube’s mobile app activates fullscreen mode, and swiping down reverts it to the standard view. Swiping up also allows users to browse suggested “for you” or related videos while in fullscreen. The purpose of these gestures is reportedly undergoing revision.
NDTV’s Gadgets 360 the vertical swipe gestures being tested by YouTube. Under the new system, swiping up on a video would transition directly to the next video rather than exiting fullscreen mode. This adjustment aligns with the gesture controls used in YouTube Shorts.
Additionally, when the playback controls overlay is visible, swiping up opens a scrolling window that allows users to skim through the video frame by frame. This feature is still in the testing phase and has not yet been integrated into the YouTube app.
While this update is not yet official, early feedback from users on X suggests dissatisfaction with the potential changes. One user expressed frustration, noting, “This is so frustrating. Frustrating enough to drive me to Twitter to see if I’m the only one annoyed.”
