YouTube tests new desktop and music interface layouts

YouTube is conducting server-side A/B tests for significant interface redesigns across its desktop and music platforms.

On the desktop web version, the company is testing a layout that moves comments, descriptions, and video details to a right-hand sidebar. This change shifts recommended videos to a larger grid directly beneath the player, which some users report makes the video window feel cramped and cluttered. Some users have already turned to community-made uBlock Origin filters to revert to the classic design due to dissatisfaction with the new viewing experience.

Simultaneously, YouTube Music is testing a visual overhaul for album and playlist pages on Android. This redesign features more immersive cover art that occupies the top third of the screen and reorganizes interaction controls, such as the play, download, and library buttons, into a more prominent split-action bar.

Google has not officially confirmed if these changes will become permanent or if they will be rolled out to all users, as they currently remain part of controlled testing phases.