YouTube Is Testing “Hype” Feature to Boost Discoverability for Small Creators on the Platform

YouTube is piloting a new feature called "Hype" designed to boost discoverability for smaller content creators. Currently in testing for viewers in Brazil, Turkey, and Taiwan, Hype allows viewers to directly influence a video's ranking within the Explore section.

Giving a Boost in Explore

Similar to liking and sharing videos, Hype offers viewers another way to show their appreciation for content. However, Hype specifically impacts a video's ranking within the Explore tab, which highlights a variety of content, not just trending videos. This distinction helps smaller creators stand out among established channels.

Helping New Voices Emerge

Hype is currently limited to videos uploaded within the last seven days and content creators within the YouTube Partner Program with less than 500,000 subscribers. By focusing on these creators, YouTube aims to give new voices a platform to reach a wider audience.

Not a Popularity Contest

Hype votes are separate from YouTube's main algorithm and don't influence trending videos. They act as an additional signal for ranking within the Explore section. Existing methods of supporting creators, such as Super Chat and Super Stickers, remain available for viewers who wish to financially contribute.

Limited Testing and Potential Changes

This experiment is currently limited geographically and for select creators. YouTube emphasizes that content must adhere to community guidelines to be eligible for Hype. Viewer feedback will be used to refine the feature during the testing period.

Future of Hype

Whether Hype is rolled out more broadly remains to be seen. However, it signifies YouTube's ongoing efforts to provide smaller creators with tools to build their audience and gain recognition within the platform.

Via