YouTube is shifting its focus towards smart TVs in the US, with the majority of users now watching content through TV apps rather than on PCs or mobile devices. CEO Neal Mohan announced new interactive features coming to the YouTube TV app in a blog post, aimed at enhancing the viewing experience for both creators and audiences.

One of the upcoming features will allow viewers to use their phones to engage with the videos they are watching on TV, such as leaving comments or making purchases, creating a “second screen experience.” This move reflects the trend of multi-screen households, where users engage with multiple devices simultaneously.

Another feature called ‘Watch With’ is designed for creators, enabling them to provide live commentary and reactions during events or game broadcasts. YouTube’s emphasis on enhancing interactivity and engagement on smart TVs aligns with its strategic vision for 2025, as it seeks to capitalize on the growing popularity of watching YouTube on large screens.

As YouTube approaches its 20th anniversary in 2025, the platform continues to evolve, embracing AI technology and expanding its content offerings to include podcasts. Despite criticisms of AI-generated content and deepfakes infiltrating the platform, YouTube remains a dominant force in streaming culture, with a diverse range of content from entertainment to educational videos.

In a landscape where YouTube accounts for a significant portion of television viewing time, the platform’s push for enhanced interactivity and engagement on smart TVs underscores its pivotal role in shaping modern viewing habits.