YouTube is testing a new experimental feature 'Hype' in select regions. This is a new method to increase reach for videos where viewers pay special attention. The company claims it is designed to help small creators gain fame faster.
The new YouTube “Hype” feature will be available as a button similar to 'Like' and 'Share' on videos. According to the company, hyping a video will do just that Help it “will appear in the rankings that week along with other promoted videos.” However, there are limitations regarding the scope, probably to avoid 'breaking' the algorithm.
YouTube 'Hype' to increase the reach of videos in certain regions
As it stands, 'Hype' is only available for videos uploaded in the last seven days. Using this option gives creators a kind of “shortcut” that allows them to increase the reach of their videos with the help of their community. The hyped videos will appear more quickly in the “Explore” feed (your home screen on YouTube). However, if you hype a video, it won't be listed in the Trending feed.
The job description suggests that there will be new hyped videos every week. The videos that receive the most “hype” are the ones that appear in the Explore feed. This is especially useful for emerging channels that are struggling to get off the ground but have a loyal community. If viewers agree, they can increase the reach of their favorite creator's video.
No impact on search results or Trending feed
Unlike 'Like', using the 'Hype' option does not affect the video's ranking in YouTube search results. So basically, having a video appear quickly in the Explore feed is an option, allowing the creator to reach a larger audience. Of course, things like the video title or the choice of thumbnail will also be important aspects.
Currently, the YouTube Hype feature is experimental and available in select regions. Only users in Brazil, Taiwan and Turkey can use it. Plus, it's not even available to all small makers. The company's notice states that the feature is “limited to a subset of YouTube Partner Program content creators with fewer than 500,000 subscribers.”
It is not yet known whether the 'Hypes' will cost viewers money. Currently, creators have multiple options to monetize their audience besides subscriptions. For example, during live streams, the audience can send Super Chats, Super Stickers and Super Thanks. All of these items are paid for, so it wouldn't be surprising if the “Hype” button is too.
