Google to launch new offline-enabled YouTube Go app

Google has brought forth a new YouTube app designed for users with unreliable data connections. It's called YouTube Go and is scheduled for release in India before a wider launch happens. Google describes the app as "offline first", sociable, and relatable, with users getting personalized recommendations, a simplified interface, and connections with other users.

videos can be shared with nearby users without using data

Like regular YouTube, Go features trending and popular videos on its home page, but it also has the option of previewing videos before saving or watching them. Users can choose the resolution for saving or streaming videos, getting an estimate of the data that's going to be consumed. Speaking of data, videos can be shared with nearby users without using data, with videos sent and received solely using the YouTube Go app.

In its announcement post, Google explains that connectivity shouldn't be a barrier to watching YouTube. Johanna Wright, VP of YT product management and a team of engineers, designers, and researchers visited 15 cities in India to collect ideas and test prototypes with hundreds of people. Thus, they proceeded to build a brand new YouTube that's better equipped to their unique needs.

Although YouTube Go will launch gradually, interested users can sign up here to be notified when the app is ready. Google will spend the next few months gathering feedback and improving the app before launching it widely early next year.

source: YouTube Blog