YouTube Tests New Community Notes-Style Factchecking Feature

YouTube Tests New Community Notes-Style Factchecking Feature

As a long-time YouTube user and someone who has fallen victim to misleading information more times than I care to remember, I am thrilled about the new notes feature being tested by YouTube. It’s like they’ve been reading my wish list! The Community Notes option on Twitter has been a lifesaver for me in many situations, and it looks like YouTube is taking a page from their book.


YouTube is currently trialing a new function aimed at preventing the dissemination of false information on their site. This innovative notes feature enables users to supply context for content displayed, which can help clarify any potential misinformation. Users can rate these notes as either “helpful,” “somewhat helpful,” or “unhelpful.” If YouTube’s algorithm deems a note as widely beneficial, it will be displayed beneath the relevant video. For instance, a video discussing extinct species might include a note stating that one of the mentioned species has been found alive again if evidence supports this claim.

YouTube prefers notes that give credible information and use clear language. They also ask for notes to steer clear of personal opinions. For instance, a note contradicting a Nintendo Switch game review might not pass, but one correcting a factual error in the review such as the game’s platforms or developer’s name would likely be approved.

Currently, the notes feature isn’t being made available to all users yet. Instead, select contributors who meet certain criteria will be contacted either via email or through a notification in Creator Studio. It seems that some users have already started receiving invitations, as tech journalist Mishaal Rahman recently announced on Twitter that he has been invited to test the feature.

It appears that YouTube’s Notes feature seems to have drawn some ideas from Twitter’s Community Notes option. Since its introduction, the Community Notes feature has been beneficial in combating misinformation on the platform. Over time, many users on YouTube and social media have shared older videos in relation to current events. Such examples include footage of protests or natural disasters. This practice is often used for political propaganda, but occasionally, it can stem from innocent mistakes. The Notes feature may facilitate easier judgement of a video’s authenticity for viewers.

I’m optimistic that testing the YouTube notes function among users will eventually make it available to everyone. Misinformation, whether unintentional or deliberate, has grown into a significant issue in the digital age. Reducing user-related issues is certainly desirable!

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2024-08-12 21:40