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Is YouTube copying Reddit with the new threaded replies update?
YouTube is updating its desktop interface. The platform is introducing Reddit-style threaded comments to desktop browsers. This update follows a year of mobile testing. The change aims to organize chaotic comment sections into readable conversations.
Previously, tracking specific replies in popular videos was difficult. Users often struggled to follow direct responses within a sea of comments. This new layout connects related comments visually. It uses curved lines and indentations to group replies. This structure mimics the familiar nesting found on Reddit.
How the Rollout Evolved
This deployment has been gradual.
- February: Limited testing began on mobile devices.
- July: YouTube Premium subscribers received early access on Android and iOS.
- October: A broader rollout reached most mobile app users.
- Current: Desktop users are now receiving the update in waves.
If you do not see the change yet, expect it soon. The update is server-side, meaning it appears automatically without requiring manual action.
Understanding the mechanics helps you adapt quickly. The system supports three distinct levels of threading. You can click a comment to expand the conversation tree. Replies beyond the third level flatten out to preserve vertical space.
Key Feature for Power Users
Many users initially find long threads cumbersome. However, you can manage this easily. A vertical line appears on the left side of each thread. Click this line to collapse the entire branch instantly. You do not need to scroll to the bottom of a discussion to close it.
Why This Matters for Engagement
This update solves a legitimate usability problem. It prioritizes clarity over simple aesthetics. Content creators and viewers benefit from organized discourse. Conversations become easier to track. Engagement likely increases when users can follow the flow of an argument.
While reaction is mixed, the functionality offers a tangible improvement. The design reduces visual clutter. It transforms disjointed shouting matches into structured dialogue.