YouTube tests AI search that gives users guided answers

YouTube is experimenting with a new AI-driven search tool called “Ask YouTube” that returns step-by-step answers combining text and video clips.

The feature is currently limited to YouTube Premium subscribers in the U.S. aged 18 and older.

‘Ask YouTube’ returns step-by-step answers

The tool lets users type conversational queries, such as planning a road trip or finding recipes. It then receives structured results that blend written instructions with short and long-form video segments.

Each result surfaces video titles and channel details so users can find new creators along the way.

Users can also ask follow-up questions within the same session. A query about a road trip itinerary, for instance, could be followed by “Where can I get lunch?” and the system will return relevant suggestions in the same mixed format.

Google confirmed it is working to bring the feature to non-Premium users eventually. Interested Premium subscribers can opt into the experiment though.

The feature fits into Google’s strategy of adding AI-powered conversational search across its products. The company launched AI Mode for Google Search last year, allowing users to ask multi-part questions with follow-ups.

In 2026, it added side-by-side web browsing and product price exploration within AI Mode, and last month introduced Gemini’s Canvas feature for maintaining projects inside AI Mode.

YouTube rolls out AI tools at a steady pace

Earlier in April, YouTube expanded its likeness detection technology, which identifies AI-generated deepfakes, to celebrities and entertainment industry figures, including talent represented by agencies like CAA, UTA, and WME.

That system works similarly to YouTube’s Content ID copyright tool but scans for simulated faces rather than copyrighted material.

The likeness detection rollout followed an earlier expansion in March to politicians, government officials, and journalists.

Leslie Miller, YouTube’s vice president of Government Affairs and Public Policy, said at the time that the expansion was “about the integrity of the public conversation.”

Google has not disclosed how the AI search results will interact with YouTube’s ad business, but the company could eventually explore surfacing sponsored placements alongside guided answers.

YouTube pulled in $40.4 billion in ad revenue in 2025. The video sharing platform surpassed Disney, NBC, Paramount, and Warner Bros. Discovery’s combined $37.8 billion, according to estimates from research firm Moffett Nathanson.

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