Google Messages Redesigns YouTube Previews for Cleaner Look

Google Messages is updating how YouTube links appear in chats. The new design provides a cleaner, more visual preview. This change is rolling out now in the latest beta version of the app.According to 9To5Google, the update makes shared videos look more enticing. It simplifies the information shown to users. This enhances the overall messaging experience.

A Side-by-Side Look at the New Format

The old design showed the video URL at the top. Below it was an image, title, and a short description. The new layout is much more streamlined.Now, a larger thumbnail image is the main focus. It is followed directly by the video’s title. The YouTube favicon and domain name appear neatly below. This creates a modern, card-like appearance.A similar refreshed design applies to website and article links. The update focuses on clarity and visual appeal. It helps users quickly identify content before tapping.

Impact on User Experience and Functionality

This visual overhaul makes conversations less cluttered. Users can scan shared links more efficiently. The design aligns with modern UI trends seen in other apps.When a YouTube preview is tapped, it opens in a picture-in-picture window. Reports indicate it does not yet open directly in the YouTube app. This behavior might be adjusted in future updates.For those who prefer text-only chats, the feature can be disabled. The setting is found in Message Settings under Automatic Previews. Turning off “Show All Previews” reverts to plain links.

Khloe Kardashian Faces Photoshop Backlash After Vowing to Quit Filters

The update to YouTube previews in Google Messages marks a significant step toward a more integrated and visually appealing messaging experience. This refinement directly improves how we interact with shared digital content daily.

Info at your fingertips

How do I get the new YouTube preview design?

The new design is available in the latest Google Messages beta. It is gradually rolling out to users. You may need to update your app to see the change.

Can I open the video in the YouTube app directly?

Currently, tapping the preview opens a picture-in-picture window. It does not launch the YouTube app directly. This may be addressed in a future update.

Does this new design use more mobile data?

Larger preview images could slightly increase data usage. The impact is likely minimal for most users on modern data plans.

What happens to links from other websites?

Links to articles and other websites also get a visual refresh. They display a lead image, title, and site favicon for a consistent look.

How can I turn off these link previews?

Go to Message Settings, then select Automatic Previews. Turn off the “Show All Previews” option to disable the feature completely.