YouTube Premium adds Smart Downloads, PiP for Shorts, & new Jump Ahead feature for Android

YouTube is adding new feaures to its Premium service with new features, including smart downloads and picture-in-picture mode for Shorts, initially available on Android devices. This update builds on existing features like background play and picture-in-picture mode for long-form video content.

Additionally, the platform is introducing the “Jump Ahead” feature, which allows users to skip to key moments in a video with a double-tap. This feature uses viewer data and machine learning to highlight the most engaging parts of a video. Currently, it is available to Android users in the U.S., with an iOS rollout expected soon.

YouTube is also testing several experimental features, including a conversational AI tool that allows users to ask questions related to the video or request suggested content. This tool is now available for Android users in the U.S. Additionally, a redesigned watch page is being tested on the web to make it easier to interact with related content and comments.