YouTube Launches AI Custom Feeds to Personalize Video Recommendations
YouTube is introducing Custom Feeds that let US viewers create homepage recommendations through written AI prompts. The feature allows people to describe the content they want, such as relaxing documentaries or new DIY creators. Meanwhile, creators will receive new AI editing tools, testing features, and Shorts Series options.
The new tools arrived during the Made on YouTube event, where the platform revealed updates for viewers and creators. However, Custom Feeds are expected to become the most noticeable change for viewers. People can create feeds based on their interests and save several versions on their home screen.
Viewers can shape their own feeds
Each custom feed will refresh automatically with new recommendations. Additionally, every feed will appear in its own homepage tab across web, mobile, and TV platforms. The feature will soon reach users in the US.
The platform is also expanding Ask YouTube into a shopping assistant. As a result, viewers can ask product questions and receive organised video suggestions. They can also use voice questions on TVs to explore reviews and comparisons.
For example, searches for product reviews may produce comparison tables with different product details. Therefore, viewers can find information more easily without searching through separate videos.
New AI features for creators
Creators will soon get a conversational editing assistant in Shorts and the YouTube Create app. The tool uses Gemini to remove pauses, rearrange clips, and match music with video timing. However, creators can still make manual edits whenever they prefer.
Additionally, YouTube Studio will provide feedback on draft videos. The feedback will cover areas such as pacing, structure, and storytelling. Creators will also receive thumbnail suggestions designed around their channel style.
Meanwhile, a new video A/B testing feature will allow creators to compare up to three versions of a video. This helps them understand which opening moments attract more attention. Also, creators can test different approaches before publishing widely.
The platform is testing AI comment moderation that creators can choose to use. Furthermore, likeness detection is coming to the mobile app. Later this year, speaking voice detection and facial detection will work together.
Shorts creators can now organise videos into seasons and episodes through Shorts Series. Additionally, microdramas on the platform reached 6.5 billion views during the first half of 2026. Live streamers will also test real-time auto-dubbing in early 2027.
Competition for creator talent
The new features arrive as Netflix makes deals with several creators, including the teams behind “Ms. Rachel” and “Mark Rober’s CrunchLabs”. Meanwhile, YouTube’s revenue-sharing model gives creators 55% of ad revenue from their videos instead of large upfront payments.
The platform has highlighted that creator partnerships and content strategies are becoming increasingly important in the competition for online video audiences. Additionally, YouTube began funding shows directly in August to encourage more original creator content.
Furthermore, Ask Studio will soon help creators respond to brand requests and create pitches. The Shopping affiliate programme will expand to 35 countries by the end of the year. Finally, Coachella will stream exclusively on the platform through 2030.
