YouTube’s Shorts just got a major upgrade. The platform is now testing a beta feature that brings Google Lens to its short videos. This means users can translate text, search for objects, places, and products directly within the app.
Imagine watching a Short and wanting to know more about a product or location. Now, you can pause the video, tap the “Lens” option, and get instant information. It’s like having a superpower in your pocket.
Here’s how it works: when you pause a video, a new “Lens” option appears in the top menu. Select an element in the video, and you’ll get more information about it. The search results will overlay the video, but you can resume playback whenever you want.
This new feature is all about making the viewing experience more interactive. YouTube wants users to explore their favorite Shorts more deeply, without having to leave the app. And the best part? No ads will interrupt your experience during the beta testing phase.
There are some limits, though. The Google Lens feature won’t work with Shorts that have affiliate links or promote paid products. But for now, the focus is on making the feature available to all users. The rollout started this week and will continue over the next few days.
What’s next?
As YouTube expands this feature, we can expect to see more innovative ways to engage with Shorts. The company is clearly committed to making its platform more interactive and user-friendly. With Google Lens on board, the possibilities are endless.
Key takeaways:
- YouTube is testing a beta feature that brings Google Lens to Shorts
- Users can translate text, search for objects, places, and products directly within the app
- The feature will overlay search results on the video, without interrupting playback
- No ads will be shown during the beta testing phase
- The feature won’t work with Shorts that have affiliate links or promote paid products
Source: YouTube Support Page