YouTube Tests Homepage Without View Counts and Dates
YouTube is testing a new homepage design that removes video view counts and publication dates. The test modification shows only creator names beneath video thumbnails, as reported by X user vidIQ.
The current homepage displays three elements under each video: creator name, view count, and publication date. In the test version, only the creator’s name remains visible.
User responses on X show mixed reactions. Some users point out that missing publication dates could affect content selection, particularly for news, gaming updates, and current events. Others note that removing view counts might impact how users choose videos, as higher view counts often influence video selection.
🚨BREAKING🚨
YouTube is testing a homepage without view counts and dates. pic.twitter.com/UQEobxSVaR
— vidIQ (@vidIQ) October 28, 2024
This test follows other recent YouTube interface changes. These include an updated progress bar design and modifications to the ad interface. YouTube has also added new AI tools for content creators.
The platform has not announced if or when these changes will be implemented permanently. It is unclear whether view counts and dates will remain visible during video playback.