YouTube introduces new health features in India to highlight, identify videos from verified sources

YouTube is bringing two new health-focused features to ensure the reliability of health information on its platform in India. The Google-owned video-sharing app has unveiled a new health resource dashboard that will label videos from trusted health organizations and government entities. With this, users can identify data from verified sources. Additionally, YouTube Health has added new health content rates that highlight videos from authoritative sources in search results. Both new features will be available in English and Hindi.

YouTube announced on Thursday the launch of new health resource boards and shelves of health content in India. The health source dashboard feature identifies videos from the source and labels them. The goal is that users who search for health-related content on YouTube will be able to view videos from recognized health organizations and government organizations immediately. With the health content shelf functionality, videos from certified sources will pop up as search results on the platform. Videos related to accredited medical institutions and government organizations are eligible for these rates.

YouTube says it’s using guidelines developed by a panel of experts convened by the US National Academy of Medicine (NAM) to point to these sources for two new health-focused features.

In a press release, the company cited Oxford’s 2021 Economic Impact Report and said that YouTube has become an integral part of the lives of millions of Indians. 69% of users say YouTube has been a trusted source of information since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, it added.

YouTube is actively looking to add new features to the platform. Earlier this year, it was spot testing a new Smart Download feature that allows users to access content without a data connection. It can automatically download videos when the Android device is connected to Wi-Fi. Smart Download can download 20 recommended videos per week. It is said to be available as an experimental feature to limited subscribers for a limited time. In a similar development, YouTube is said to be roll out Hearing Controls for Premium users on Android and iOS. The new feature gives users additional controls when listening to music on the platform.