YouTube has introduced a new feature that allows users to generate custom playlists using artificial intelligence. The global video platform announced the rollout this week, enabling a faster, automated method for compiling video sequences based on simple user prompts.
The tool is integrated directly into the YouTube interface. It is designed to assist viewers who may have a specific mood, activity, or theme in mind but lack the time to manually search for and organize individual videos.
How the AI Feature Operates
To use the feature, a viewer must access the “Ask for music recommendations” dialog within the YouTube app. Users can then type or speak a natural language prompt describing the type of playlist they desire. Examples of prompts could include “upbeat workout music for running” or “calm instrumental study focus.”
The platform’s AI system processes this request, analyzing the vast YouTube library to select and order videos that match the described criteria. It creates a temporary, editable playlist within the user’s account in seconds. Users retain full control to preview, modify, remove, or save the final list.
Platform Context and Development
This launch follows YouTube’s ongoing integration of generative AI across its services. In recent months, the company, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., has tested AI tools for summarizing comment sections and generating video topic ideas for creators.
The move aligns with broader industry trends where streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music utilize algorithmic recommendations and AI-generated playlists such as “Daily Mixes” to increase user engagement and session time.
Data and User Privacy Considerations
In its announcement, YouTube stated that the AI playlist generator uses the same privacy and data protection standards as its core recommendation engine. The system relies on general user preferences, watch history, and the context of the prompt itself to generate results.
The company confirmed that users can delete their watch and search history at any time, which influences the AI’s future suggestions. The feature is subject to the platform’s overall terms of service and privacy policy.
Initial Availability and Access
The AI playlist creation tool is currently being released to a limited subset of YouTube users on mobile devices. This phased rollout is standard practice for the platform when testing new functionalities with a live audience before a wider release.
Eligible users will see the option appear in their YouTube app interface. The company has not specified a timeline for when all global users across web and connected TV platforms will gain access, stating it will depend on feedback and technical performance during the initial phase.
Looking ahead, YouTube’s development roadmap suggests further AI-driven features are in testing. Based on official communications, the company is likely to expand this tool’s capabilities, potentially allowing for more complex prompts and integration with YouTube Music, before concluding the global rollout in the coming months.
Source: Company Announcement
