YouTube is enhancing its video search functionality by rolling out important updates to its search filters. The modifications, which encompass renames and removals, are designed to align better with user expectations, optimizing the search experience for millions of users.

To access the new filters, users can perform a search and tap on “Filters” located on the right side of the search results. Mobile users can access these options by first tapping the three-dot overflow menu.

What’s New in Search Filters?

The updated filters introduce a new “Shorts” category under Type, which replaces traditional video categories. This addition is aimed at making it easier for users to discover short-form content alongside existing options like Videos, Channels, Playlists, and Movies.

Changes to Duration and Upload Date Filters

The Duration filter now reflects slight adjustments, changing “Under 4 minutes” to “Under 3 minutes” and retaining “3 – 20 minutes.” Additionally, the Upload Date filter has seen the removal of the “Last hour” option, with “Today” becoming the new starting point for recent uploads.

Renamed Options for Improved Usability

In an effort to clarify user interaction, the Sort By menu has been renamed to “Prioritize.” The View count filter is now termed “Popularity,” which aims to provide users with videos that are not only popular but also relevant to their search queries. YouTube assesses view counts and other signals to determine a video’s popularity effectively.

Removal of Certain Filters

YouTube has also removed the “Sort By Rating” option, providing users with a clearer search experience. According to YouTube, both the “Upload Date – Last Hour” and “Sort by Rating” filters were not functioning as intended, leading to user complaints regarding their effectiveness.

The company stated, “You can still find the most recent search results in one of our ‘Upload Date’ filters and explore popular, highly-viewed videos using the new ‘Popularity’ filter option.”

Improving the User Experience

The latest improvements aim to enhance intuition and overall efficiency when navigating search results. Though users are yet to see these changes reflected on both youtube.com and the YouTube apps, the platform actively works towards making it easier and more enjoyable for users to find their desired content.