YouTube has announced the launch of a new feature called interactive cards which the company says is the evolution of annotations.
The new YouTube Interactive will be available in six different versions and they will work on mobile as well as desktop version of YouTube.
As a creator, you’ve probably been using annotations to engage with your viewers for years. But one of the things you’ve told us is that you need more flexibility with the info you share through annotations, and—most importantly—you need it to work across screens and especially on mobile. That’s why today we’re introducing cards.
You can think of cards like an evolution of annotations. They can inform your viewers about other videos, merch, playlists, websites and more. They look as beautiful as your videos, are available anytime during the video and yes, they finally work on mobile.
What Are YouTube Interactive Cards?
YouTube Interactive Cards are a new feature designed to enhance viewer engagement by providing more versatile and visually appealing options compared to traditional annotations. These cards can be used to share a variety of information, including links to other videos, merchandise, playlists, and external websites. Unlike annotations, which were often criticized for their intrusive nature and limited functionality, interactive cards are designed to be more user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing.
The cards are available in six different types, each serving a unique purpose. These include:
1. Video or Playlist Cards: Direct viewers to other videos or playlists.
2. Channel Cards: Promote another YouTube channel.
3. Donation Cards: Encourage viewers to donate to a non-profit organization.
4. Poll Cards: Engage viewers by allowing them to participate in polls.
5. Link Cards: Direct viewers to external websites.
6. Merchandise Cards: Promote products and merchandise.
Benefits of Interactive Cards
One of the most significant advantages of interactive cards is their compatibility with mobile devices. As mobile viewership continues to rise, it is crucial for content creators to have tools that work seamlessly across all platforms. Interactive cards meet this need by providing a consistent experience whether viewers are on a desktop or a mobile device.
Another benefit is the improved visual appeal. Interactive cards are designed to blend seamlessly with the video content, making them less intrusive and more engaging. This is particularly important for maintaining viewer retention, as overly intrusive annotations can often lead to a negative viewing experience.
Moreover, interactive cards offer greater flexibility in terms of the information that can be shared. For example, a content creator can use a poll card to gather viewer opinions on a particular topic, or a merchandise card to promote a new product line. This versatility makes interactive cards a powerful tool for content creators looking to engage their audience in more meaningful ways.
As a creator, you’ve probably been using annotations to engage with your viewers for years. But one of the things you’ve told us is that you need more flexibility with the info you share through annotations, and—most importantly—you need it to work across screens and especially on mobile. That’s why today we’re introducing cards.
You can think of cards like an evolution of annotations. They can inform your viewers about other videos, merch, playlists, websites and more. They look as beautiful as your videos, are available anytime during the video and yes, they finally work on mobile.
You can find out more details about these interactive cards over at YouTube at the link below.
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