YouTube is testing an AI-powered search feature that shows guided answers

Source: TechCrunch

Image Credit: Matthias Balk/picture alliance / Getty Images

Overview

YouTube is testing an AI‑powered interactive search feature called “Ask YouTube.” The tool presents step‑by‑step results that combine text, short clips, and longer videos, helping users find more relevant content for queries such as recipes, travel plans, and other topics.

How “Ask YouTube” Works

• Users can type natural‑language questions, e.g., “Plan a 3‑day road trip from San Francisco to Santa Barbara.”
• The AI returns a guided answer that mixes:
  • Text explanations
  • Short video snippets
  • Full‑length videos with titles and channel details
• Follow‑up questions are supported, such as “Where can I get good coffee?” The system provides additional suggestions in the same format.

Image Credit: YouTube

Availability

• Currently limited to Premium subscribers in the United States who are 18 +.
• Interested users must opt into the experiment via this URL.
• Google is working on extending the feature to non‑Premium users.

Related AI Initiatives at Google

Google has been expanding AI‑driven experiences across its products:

• AI Mode (launched last year) – lets users ask multi‑part questions and follow‑ups.
• Side‑by‑side web browsing – introduced earlier this year.
• Product price exploration – helps users find in‑stock items nearby.
• Gemini’s Canvas – a project‑management tool within AI Mode.

These developments suggest that YouTube’s guided‑answer search could eventually integrate with sponsored placements and other video discovery mechanisms.