After testing got underway last year, YouTube is now more widely rolling out a new in-app messaging system. The aim is to let people “connect over their favorite videos directly on YouTube.”
Once available, the top-right corner of the YouTube app will show a new messaging icon. This system lets you share videos, Shorts, or livestreams and have 1:1 conversations.
One nuance of this capability is how you can only talk with a person after inviting them using a URL. That invite link (valid for 7 days) must be sent using a third-party chat platform. It’s designed to let you have conversations with friends and family that you already know, rather than the broader YouTube audience.
In testing last year, YouTube said this was a “top feature request,” and something it previously offered until removing in 2019.
After the recipient clicks that link, they have to “Allow messaging” or select “Not now.” This makes YouTube’s messaging feature a bit more narrow and just focused on video sharing. Additionally, unlisted video links can be shared, but not private ones.
