YouTube update brings all new card UI and in-app video minimizing [NEW vs OLD]
Straight out of left field, Google is dropping an all new YouTube version 5.0 into the Play Store. It’s been awhile since we last saw an update to the official YouTube app and the latest update (rolling out now), brings, not only a new card-like UI and improved navigation menu, but enhanced features like PIP.
(New YouTube 5.0 top, old YouTube bottom)
First up is the navigation menu which is accessible by swiping from the left edge of your display. The menu is now populated with quick access to uploads, history, favorites, and playlists (without having to select your profile first). Below those, you’ll find the familiar subscribed YouTube channels.
Easily the biggest new feature is the addition of the picture-in-picture viewing option for any video currently being viewed within the app. Simply swipe a video down (or click a check mark in the upper left corner) to minimize said video into the corner and continue browsing YouTube. The minimized video can also be swiped to the left to quickly close it. While we would have liked to have seen this option system-wide (outside of the YouTube app), at least it’s a start.
Of course, the usual bug fixes and system enhancements also apply and like always, this update is being pushed out in stages. So, don’t freak out if you can’t update just yet — it’ll arrive soon enough. Can’t. Stop. Minimizing.