YouTube is bringing back direct messages, but there’s a bit of a catch. The availability of the returning YouTube feature is limited for now, but may lead to a widespread return after testing is completed.
Way back in 2017, YouTube introduced direct messaging, which allowed users to communicate privately with one another, including by sending messages to popular creator channels on the platform. However, YouTube is always changing, and after two years, the feature was removed, but many have been clamoring for its return since.
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YouTube Brings Back Direct Messaging, With Some Catches
On November 18, YouTube announced that it was introducing new ways to share videos, and with it, a method of directly communicating with other users. YouTube users who are eligible for the feature can share video content via a link, which then gives the recipient an opportunity to accept or deny the request. If the request goes through, the two users will be able to share content and messages directly with one another on YouTube itself. However, at the moment, this YouTube feature is only being offered as one of the service’s experiments, and can only be accessed by users in Ireland or Poland who are aged 18 or older. Presumably, if the experiment works out, the service will be expanded to more regions or worldwide. Direct messaging is notably a feature offered by TikTok, which YouTube has been actively competing with in short-form content.
Although this direct messaging feature will likely be welcomed by many users, there is some fine print regarding how it will work. YouTube has acknowledged that any messages shared via the service may be scanned for content that violates the platform’s community guidelines, such as messages that could potentially lead to real-life danger or harm. While some might not be thrilled with the diminished privacy, it could help YouTube to avoid some problems that have happened on services like Twitch. Back in 2017, the private messaging feature on the platform, Twitch Whispers, which has since been discontinued, was used by Dr Disrespect to send inappropriate messages to a minor. Monitoring, plus requiring users to be over the age of 18, may help to prevent this kind of incident from happening on YouTube. Users can also manually report messages if they feel that they’re inappropriate or violate YouTube’s content guidelines.
Additionally, YouTube users involved in direct conversations will be able to delete their conversations, but only on their own side, as the other user will still be able to see the history. Unsending messages will also be an option, which will remove the message from the chat for both users. However, all of these details are subject to change based on how the new YouTube feature is received. Fans of the video streaming service outside of Poland and Ireland should stay tuned for further updates.
Source: YouTube
