YouTube is experimenting with a new notification system aimed at reducing push notifications from channels that users have subscribed to but rarely engage with.
Highlights
Announced by Google, the test seeks to refine how notifications are delivered, ensuring users receive relevant updates while still keeping all content accessible within the app.
Addressing Notification Overload
Currently, users who subscribe to a channel can choose to receive all notifications, but if they stop engaging with that creator’s content, the notifications may become excessive.
The only way to manage this was to manually adjust notification settings or disable them entirely, which could result in missing important updates from frequently watched creators.
Under this test, YouTube will automatically reduce push notifications from channels that users have not interacted with recently.
Before and After (Expected)
These notifications will still be available in the YouTube app’s notification inbox. Channels that upload infrequently or those with which users remain actively engaged will not be affected by this change, ensuring that key updates continue to reach interested viewers.
Key Features of the Test
- Reduced Notifications for Inactive Engagement: Users who have opted to receive “All” notifications from a channel but have not interacted with its content recently will receive fewer push notifications. Despite this change, notifications will remain accessible in the YouTube app.
- Exemptions for Certain Channels: Channels that post infrequently or that users engage with regularly will not be affected by this experiment. This ensures that notifications from less active but favored creators continue to reach their audience.
Objective of the Experiment
The test aims to address notification fatigue, a common issue where users become overwhelmed by frequent alerts, leading them to disable notifications for the entire app.
By selectively reducing notifications from less-engaged channels, YouTube hopes to maintain effective communication between creators and audiences while minimizing disruptions.
Current Status and Availability
The new system is currently in the testing phase, available to a limited group of users. YouTube has not provided a timeline for a broader rollout, indicating that future implementation will depend on user feedback and test results.
YouTube’s Efforts to Improve User Experience
Alongside this notification test, YouTube has been experimenting with other features, including:
- Automatic Review for “Limited or No Ads” Ratings – A system that reviews newly uploaded videos for ad eligibility, even if they are set to private. This process can take up to 24 hours.
- End Screen Control Feature – A setting that allows users to hide end screens on both desktop and mobile, providing more control over their viewing experience.
