YouTube Music is playing with its interface again, this time by relocating the search button. What used to live up in the top corner is now being tested dead-center on the bottom bar, and surprisingly, it might just be a smart move.
YouTube Music repositions search for easier access
Spotted by users on Reddit and confirmed by 9to5Google, YouTube Music’s new test moves the search button from its tucked-away top-right spot to a much more thumb-friendly location at the bottom of the screen. It takes the place of the old “Explore” button, but the functionality isn’t too far off.
Tap the new button and you’ll land on what looks like a revamped Explore page with a search bar at the top. It’s a slight detour compared to the old one-tap-and-type setup, but still functional.
Users are mostly on board
As expected, not everyone is thrilled. Some users pointed out that it now takes an extra step to start typing a query. Instead of launching straight into search, you first hit the new page, then tap again to bring up the keyboard.
However, a small trick has already surfaced: double-tapping the search button skips the extra step and opens the keyboard directly.
Despite the hiccup, most feedback online has been positive. YouTube Music’s lower placement is more ergonomic, especially when using the app one-handed.
It’s still a test for now
At this stage, the updated layout appears limited. 9to5Google only found it active on one account, suggesting it’s a narrow test rollout. That said, YouTube has a track record of quietly A/B testing UI tweaks before making them official.
And with early reactions leaning in favor, there’s a good chance this redesign sticks.
YouTube Music continues slow but steady UI evolution
YouTube Music has spent years catching up to Spotify and Apple Music, not just in features but in usability. Small changes like this one show a willingness to refine how users interact with the app, even if it means scrapping older design habits.
Moving the search to a more accessible location might seem minor, but for users who navigate the app constantly, every tap counts.
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