Creators enrolled in the YouTube Partner Program can now convert existing playlists into Shows, a new format built for episodic content viewed on TV screens. Rather than appearing as a standard playlist, a Show presents videos in a more polished layout with dedicated poster art, title cards and custom backdrops.
According to YouTube, the feature works best for videos that follow a consistent theme or storyline and share similar thumbnails, intros and production quality. Creators can transform an existing playlist into a Show or build one from scratch.
The update is meant to make it easier for viewers to watch episodes in sequence, an experience closer to browsing a streaming service.
Designed with TV viewing in mind
Over the past year, the platform has introduced several TV-focused features, including redesigned channel pages, higher-resolution artwork and improved navigation for living room screens. Earlier this year, YouTube reported that viewers now watch more than one billion hours of its content on televisions every day, making TV one of its fastest-growing viewing platforms.
Packaging playlists as Shows gives creators a cleaner way to organize long-running series for the big screen. Educational content, podcasts and interviews all fit the same mold.
Focus on TV programming
Earlier this month, creator-led series “Subway Takes” earned a Primetime Emmy nomination after being included in YouTube’s “For Your Consideration” campaign. The company has kept rolling out living-room updates as more creators produce high-quality, serialized content for audiences watching from the couch.
The Show format does not change how videos are uploaded or monetized. What it offers is another way to package existing content for viewers who prefer watching on television.