YouTube’s latest test is a nightmare for your muscle memory

Source: Android Authority

TL;DR

• YouTube is testing a redesigned mobile feed layout that moves the Subscriptions tab from the bottom bar to a swipeable top navigation area.
• The new interface lets users switch between feeds with horizontal swipes instead of extra taps.
• YouTube is also experimenting with relocating sections like Movies and TV, though the test is currently limited to select Android and iPhone users.

A new swipe‑based navigation

YouTube recently let users hide Shorts from the Home feed entirely, a change that many found useful for avoiding endless scroll loops. Now the platform appears to be taking another major step.

A post on the Google community support forums confirmed that a company employee is testing a redesigned mobile feed navigation system aimed at making it easier and faster to reach different content sections.

Moving Subscriptions to the top

Currently, Subscriptions lives in the bottom navigation bar, requiring an extra tap. In the test, feed categories are shifted to the top of the screen and become swipeable, eliminating that tap.

The layout resembles apps like X (formerly Twitter), where “For You” and “Following” feeds sit side‑by‑side and can be switched with a quick swipe. YouTube seems to be chasing a similarly fluid experience.

Consolidating other sections

The experiment also includes moving Movies and TV into the new top navigation area, potentially creating a more centralized hub for paid and personalized content. The Explore menu may only appear when users pull down to refresh the feed or scroll up.

Why it matters

Feed placement influences how users interact with the app. By making Subscriptions more accessible, YouTube could encourage users to spend more time with creators they follow, rather than bouncing through algorithmic recommendations. However, some users may prefer the familiar layout, as familiarity can be a strong factor in daily usage.

Availability

The redesigned feed experience is currently being tested with a limited group of Android and iPhone users. YouTube will likely use the feedback to decide whether the new navigation makes the app easier to use or adds confusion. If the test proves successful, this swipe‑heavy layout could become the future of YouTube’s mobile app.