YouTube is introducing a new feature that allows users to interact with content on their TV sets using their mobile phones, reiterating its commitment to living-room streaming.


The Android or iOS phone must be connected to the same YouTube account as the TV. When the software prompts users to connect, they may click "connect" to sync the two devices.


The Google-owned video company claimed in a blog post that its TV app, which began 12 years ago, had risen to 700 million daily viewing hours as of January 2022. YouTube has worked to improve its larger-screen offering, and the company recently held its annual Brandcast event during TV upfront week to entice advertisers. In the first quarter, YouTube generated $6.86 billion in ad revenue.


"As more people watch YouTube on their televisions, one issue we have as a design team is how to maintain the experience simple, streamlined, and intuitive while simultaneously bringing the best of YouTube to the television," according to the blog post. The new feature aims to provide users with "a direct method to access the full power of YouTube while viewing on your TV."


Typically, YouTube's 2 billion worldwide visitors are not leaning back. They often like, share, and comment on videos, as well as subscribe to channels. It's inconvenient to do all of this with a TV remote. "Remote controls may be tricky to use and navigate with, most TVs don't have built-in web browsers, and you typically have less area to work with since you're always viewing content in a full screen experience," according to the blog post.


Many people watch the YouTube app on their TV screen and then bring up the same video on their phones to engage with it, according to research conducted by YouTube engineers and designers.



After the synchronization function is in place, YouTube wants to expand the experience by adding more options. "We're already starting to test new designs for our video watch page to help fold in more uniquely YouTube features — like browsing and purchasing for things mentioned in videos — right to the large screen to help you decide whether to pick up your phone and participate," according to the article.