YouTube Brings Back Direct Messages: New Video-Sharing Chat Feature Testing Begins

YouTube is once again experimenting with a major communication feature that many users have been asking for direct messaging. After removing its old messaging tool back in 2019, the platform is now testing a refreshed and more integrated version of videob ased conversations with in the YouTube mobile app. This move aims to make sharing videos and talking about them easier, faster, and more engaging.

According to information released on an official page, YouTube has started rolling out this updated messaging feature to a limited group of users. For now,  test is only available to adults above 18 and over in Ireland and Poland. While the platform hasn’t confirmed when or if the feature will launch globally, it is clear that YouTube is responding to user demand. The company specifically mentioned that bringing back the ability to message directly on the app has been a “top feature request.”

What YouTube’s New Direct Messaging Feature Offers

The highlight of this experiment is the ability to share YouTube videos—whether long-form uploads, Shorts, or live streams—directly within a private chat. Instead of copying a link and hopping to another messaging app like WhatsApp, Messenger, or Telegram, users can now share a video and start a conversation right inside YouTube.

YouTube describes this features as a way to “share videos you love and have conversations about they directly on the YouTube mobile app.” This makes the experience more seamles for people who enjoy discussing content with friends or want a quicker way to recommend videos.

Safety and Moderation Built In

Since messaging can raise safety and privacy concerns, YouTube has incorporated several safeguards. Messages exchanged within this new feature will be monitored under YouTube’s Community Guidelines, the same rules that apply to comments and uploaded content. According to YouTube, messages may be scanned for harmful or policy-violating content, and flagged messages may be reviewed by the moderation team. This includes content that may cause real-world harm or violate platform policies.

This level of monitoring is consistent with other major messaging platforms that scan for harmful or abusive content, especially in features linked to public-facing services.

This structure helps prevent spam or unwanted messages, which was a major issue in the older version of YouTube’s messaging feature.

How This Difference from the Old YouTube Messaging Feature

YouTube previously offered a direct messaging system that allowed users to create groups, send videos, and chat within the app. However, the feature was discontinued in 2019 because it was underused compared to the growing popularity of external messaging apps.

What’s different this time?

The new messaging feature is closely tied to video sharing, making it feel more like to built-in discussion tool than a full chat system.

The introduction of invite-based access improves safety.

YouTube emphasizges community standards and moderation more heavily than before.

Why YouTube Might Be Bringing Messaging Back,

The rise of short-form content, such as YouTube Shorts, has increased how often users share videos with friends. ManThis could also help YouTube compete more effectively with platforms like TikTok and Instagram, which allow users to easily share content through integrated messaging systems.

By reintroducing messaging, YouTube could boost engagement, keep users inside the app longer, and create a more social viewing experience.

Would You Use YouTube Messaging?

Many users have already expressed interest in having direct messages return to the platform. If YouTube manages to strike the right balance between convenience, safety, and privacy, this feature cou quickly become one of the most useful additions to the YouTube mobile app.