YouTube is testing a new floating “Play Something” action button, borrowing a now-defunct button. Netflix feature of the same name. It works pretty much the same way: plays a random video, likely based on your previous selection. 9to5Google reported.
Clicking the button launches the video in the Shorts player, but the content is not limited to Shorts as it also plays regular videos in a vertical format with black bars at the top and bottom. As with any Shorts video, there are buttons on the right side for “Like,” “Dislike,” “Comments,” and “Share.” The button can only play one video, as the interface closes when opening a Shorts video.
The new feature looks like a way for YouTube to reach viewers, especially on the Shorts platform. The platform has previously tested similar features, including a “Play Anything” banner. Netflix removed this function (later titled “Surprise Me”) two years after launch due to low usage.