YouTube has released a new update detailing the global rollout of metadata testing tools and the return of their annual user recap.

Title and Thumbnail A/B Testing

The most significant update is the global launch of Title and Thumbnail A/B testing for all creators with access to Advanced Features. This tool is designed to help creators make data-driven decisions about their video packaging.

• How it works: Creators can compare up to three variations of titles, thumbnails, or a combination of both.

• Duration: Tests run for up to two weeks.

• Success Metric: Unlike many external tools that focus on Click-Through Rate (CTR), YouTube’s native tool optimizes for Watch Time. The goal is to identify the packaging that leads to the highest viewer engagement.

• Results: At the end of a test, creators will see if there was a clear “Winner,” if the options “Performed Same,” or if the test was “Inconclusive” (often due to low impressions).

YouTube Recap

YouTube Recap is now rolling out, offering a “story-like” experience that highlights a user’s unique interests, music, and creators from the past year. It is available via the “You” tab in the YouTube mobile app or on the desktop site. YouTube suggests creators use this moment to engage with their community by reacting to fans who share recaps featuring their content.

Winter Gift Drop

For creators who use vertical live streaming, a new set of seasonal digital gifts is available. These include a deer, hot cocoa, joystick, owl, catbox, and Frenchie. These gifts will remain in the picker until March 20.

For the full breakdown, you can watch the original video from Creator Insider here: https://youtu.be/Ef9vcwon10s