Even on YouTube There Are Private Messages.
On Wednesday , YouTube announced plans to roll out Direct Messages (DMs) in the US and several other regions. This means you can now share YouTube videos with your friends directly on YouTube, rather than sending the content to other chat apps. YouTube joins a cadre of apps you might not expect to have DMs, like Spotify and Zillow . While it’s unlikely to become the next WhatsApp, it could be useful for friends who frequently share YouTube videos: considering the vast majority of my DMs on Instagram are from friends sharing Reels, I can see why YouTube DMs could be popular. This feature, which YouTube has been testing since late last year , is now available to everyone. Here’s how it works.
How to send private messages on YouTube
To send private messages on YouTube, you need to add people as friends. If this feature is available, you’ll see a message icon at the top of the YouTube mobile app’s home screen. Tap this icon, then select “Invite to Chat” to send an invitation. Once the other person accepts your invitation, you’ll be able to send them a private message on YouTube. When you receive a private message request, you can either allow it or select “Not Now,” which allows you to view the invitation later rather than immediately declining it.
The next time you watch a video you want to share, you can tap the “Share” button, and your YouTube friends will appear alongside other sharing options. Choose any contact to share the video with. You can also add text messages to the video if you want to add a little context, and of course, you can chat with your YouTube friends using this feature.
Availability and availability of private messages on YouTube
This feature will be available in YouTube mobile apps if you’re over 18. At the time of writing, YouTube Direct Messages are available in 40 regions , including the US, UK, and many European countries. It’s worth noting that YouTube users in India don’t yet have access to this feature. YouTube states that to use this feature, you’ll need to sign in to your account and may be required to verify your age. The company also emphasized that your Direct Messages will be subject to its Community Guidelines , which prohibit spam, sensitive content such as nudity, violent or dangerous content, misinformation, and illegal activity.