YouTube Lets Viewers Control Connected TVs From Their Phones
YouTube has rolled out a new connected TV (CTV) feature that allows viewers to control their TV viewing experience directly from their smartphones, removing the need for a traditional remote control. The company noted that certain tasks, such as typing comments, reading video descriptions, or subscribing to channels, have historically been cumbersome using standard remotes, and this update aims to make those interactions smoother.
Phone-Based Controls Expand Engagement Options
With the update, users can now like videos, leave comments, and subscribe to channels straight from their phones while content continues playing on the television screen. Viewers can also browse other parts of the YouTube app simultaneously, including searching for new videos or watching Shorts, without disrupting what’s currently on the TV. Sending a video to the TV has also been simplified, with users able to cast content directly from their phone’s home feed by selecting the “Play on different device” option in a video’s menu.