YouTube is testing a new landscape mode for Android: here’s what’s changing

The landscape YouTube experience may soon evolve. The platform is testing an overhaul of its interface for Android devices, aiming to better take advantage of large screens and horizontal formats.

YouTube is currently testing a new landscape mode interface for its Android app. The goal is to optimize the user experience on large screens, such as landscape smartphones, folding smartphones and tablets.

New interface for YouTube landscape mode on Android

For the moment, the interface YouTube in landscape mode on Android leaves something to be desired. Designed from a simple rotation of portrait mode, it lacks optimization. Channel updates appear at the top, followed by your subscription feed, all in a layout that makes the content appear cramped. Furthermore, large white areas on the sides show that the horizontal space is not used optimally.

YouTube’s current landscape interface. Source: Android Authority

The new version currently being tested, available on the YouTube v19.50.36 app for some users, brings significant changes. Channel updates migrate to a left sidebar, while videos appear in a separate column. This two-column configuration makes full use of the width of the screens. Video thumbnails are also better adjusted, providing a more visually balanced and easy-to-view interface.

The YouTube interface currently being tested. Source: Android Authority

A better experience for foldable devices and tablets

Devices with large screens particularly benefit from this new interface. Using a side navigation bar and a more structured layout allows more information to be displayed simultaneously, without cluttering the screen. This redesign also simplifies the transition between scrolling through subscriptions and viewing in full screen, a recurring problem with the “old” version.

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But this update remains in the testing phase. Only a few users have access to the new interface, and no official global deployment schedule has been announced. YouTube nevertheless seems to be seriously exploring this avenue to improve the user experience. It remains to be seen whether or not this optimized version will establish itself as the new standard for all Android users. Don’t hesitate to tell us what you think in the comments.