Recently, Google announced that a YouTube Music premium subscription is now required for some users to access song lyrics, a feature that was formerly complimentary. While Google classified this development as an “experiment,” it assured users that the majority would not experience any changes to the lyrics feature.
Google has always been forthcoming about its operations, but the criteria used to decide which customers now have to pay for formerly free features remains unclear. It has also introduced a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) feature to YouTube Music which requires a premium subscription. This feature, powered by Gemini AI, allows users to create a playlist that matches their current mood, using natural language to communicate with the integrated AI prompt in the YouTube Music app. This feature has started rolling out on both the iOS and Android versions of the app.
To leverage this feature, users need to open the YouTube Music app and tap the Library tab at the bottom of the screen. Next, they should tap the “New” button that appears in the bottom-right corner of the page. If they have a premium YouTube Music subscription, an ‘AI Playlist’ option will be visible. By tapping on it and describing the mood they wish their music to reflect, users can customize their playlist. They can either use natural language and voice or type in their mood to the prompt.
It’s important to note that YouTube Music is not unique in utilizing AI to help users curate playlists. Spotify’s Prompted Playlist also leverages natural language to enable users to tailor their playlists based on their current mood and listening history.
AI-generated playlists on YouTube Music require a premium subscription, which offers ad-free music, background play, and offline downloads. The premium subscription is available at the following rates:
– Individual: $10.99 per month or $109.99 per year.
– Family: $16.99 per month (For up to six people per household).
– Student: $5.49 per month. Annual verification from SheerID is required.
Purchasing a YouTube premium subscription might be a more value-for-money option as it includes ad-free videos, offline video downloads, and background play for the main YouTube app in addition to the premium YouTube Music subscription.
Google has incorporated the Gemini AI icon into many of its apps, including the YouTube Floating Action Bar. By tapping on the Gemini icon while watching a video, an “Ask panel” will open on the right side with several preset queries that can be submitted with a simple tap. These questions can ask for a summary of the video, recommended related content, and more. A prompt at the bottom is ready for users to ask anything they wish.
What is the new feature in YouTube Music?
The new feature in YouTube Music, powered by Gemini AI, allows users to create customized playlists based on their current mood, using either voice or typed natural language.
What is the cost of a YouTube Music premium subscription?
The cost of a YouTube Music premium subscription varies. For individuals, it’s $10.99 per month or $109.99 per year. For families (up to six people), it’s $16.99 per month. Students can avail it at $5.49 per month after annual verification from SheerID.
What is the Gemini AI icon on YouTube?
The Gemini AI icon on YouTube opens an “Ask panel” with several preset queries when tapped during a video. These queries can ask for a summary of the video, recommended related content, and more.
