YouTube is reportedly testing a new homepage without view count and upload date

YouTube is reportedly testing a new homepage without information about view counts and upload dates. When the claim surfaced online, users expressed their dissatisfaction with the alleged update. Some appreciated the removal of the view count next to the thumbnails, but most people argued that removing the upload date information would be a disservice, especially when it comes to news updates. YouTube has not directly refuted the claims, but said they will investigate the matter if necessary and that third-party browser extensions may be responsible.

YouTube tests new homepage

According to an X after by user vidIQ (@vidIQ) YouTube is testing a new homepage layout without any view count and upload date information. The videos on the homepage appear with only the channel name and title of the video next to the thumbnail image.

The comment section of the X post lists most of the users claimed that the reported removal of views is unlikely to change their consumption habits or experiences much said it can help emerging creators on YouTube get more views, as people sometimes don’t click on videos with lower views.

Most of the complaints were about the alleged removal of the upload date information. If this claim is true, some users to believe it affects content consumption on YouTube because details about each topic change over time. It is very likely that this will influence political and other reporting or content around current issues.

YouTube’s response

Alphabet’s video streaming platform has responded to these claims. The company has not yet outright refuted reports that a new homepage without the aforementioned features is being tested. YouTube did that in an X-post clarified that some users may not be able to see the number of views and upload date on their homepage if “certain browser extensions” are enabled.

YouTube added that if viewers are still not seeing this information on their homepage despite third-party browser extension interventions, they should report it to the company. YouTube will then investigate the matter.