YouTube—the video-sharing giant that hosts everything from scholarly commentaries and “missing cat” commercials—is rolling out a new look and feel for its Channels. These updates are intended to make it easier for users to find and watch content.
Currently account owners can opt into the new Channels design. The new Channels format isn’t mandatory. However, all Channels will automatically switch to the new design one month from today on March 7. If you own or operate a YouTube account, now is the perfect time to plan and make your transition to ensure it’s as smooth as possible.
Among the changes are different sizes and placements of graphics on Channels. The most noticeable graphics-related change is that the new format no longer allows for a separate banner. When you adopt the new Channels format, you’re allowed to select one of four templates to customize in a way that will help you best keep your viewers engaged and coming back.
The new Channels format also gives you many opportunities to optimize your YouTube account for better search engine results. This helpful blog post chronicles some of the things to look out for when you’re updating your account. The tutorial includes step-by-step screen grabs with the instructions.
