Lately, almost every major platform on the Internet is switching things up. They seem to be competing for the attention of web users worldwide. Or, perhaps, they recognize that no matter what, we are always excited about new things to make our digital media experiences better. Can’t argue with that.
First were the announcements of more ads to come on Twitter, then the introduction of Google+, and followed by the “Awesome” (Zuckerberg’s description, not mine) Facebook Event describing the site’s new video chat features with Skype. Not to mention plenty of other breaking tech news. Mind you, this all occurred in approximately the last 3 weeks. At the very least, it’s been a productive summer for the industry thus far.
And now, Cosmic Panda.
What’s that you say? No, I wasn’t kidding. It’s really called Cosmic Panda.
Cosmic Panda is YouTube’s new experimental project. It’s the codename for an entirely new YouTube– one that I must admit, looks pretty good.
It’s the same old YouTube we love, but with much more.
It contains a new, slick design, more features to customize channel pages, as well as the ability to keep watching videos when moving between different pages, channels and playlists (this feature is only available to Chrome users). I have no doubt, however, that other browsers will pick up on this quickly if the project is implemented for the long run.
My first impression was that the dark background behind the videos was a really smart move. With less white background, the visibility of videos are enhanced in the most subtle but significant manner. Sure, it’s a big step to take– walking away from the original, basic design that got the site famous, but it’s a breath of fresh air that YouTube needs. Other platforms have altered their basic looks multiple times, only to attain new innovations and achievements. It’s time for YouTube to do the same.
Back to Cosmic Panda’s highlights:
I thought the re-alignment of other videos from specific channel pages, now scrolling horizontally below the featured video was brilliant. Users don’t have to scroll away from what they’re watching to find other content they’re intersted in.
And lastly, the ability to choose to see either comments or suggested videos below the featured content helps minimize the clutter that YouTube makes in its current design.
Simple tasks being made simpler. It’s another win-win for social media.
Users still have the ability to test out the new design and offer feedback. If you haven’t already, I highly recommend trying it out. Just click the link highlighted above.
You can, of course, switch back to the old version at any time.
