YouTube announced the launch of side-by-side ads for automated live mid-rolls, the expansion of the voice replies experiment to a select number of Android creators, and a new Beta feature that brings the functionality of Google Lens to Shorts.

Side-by-Side Live Ads

According to Creator Insider, the side-by-side ads for automated live mid-rolls on living room and web platforms enable creators to earn revenue while minimizing disruption to livestreams. During these ads, the livestream continues to play alongside the advertisement, with the stream’s audio temporarily muted while the ad audio plays. 

When the ad ends or is skipped, the video player returns to its full size, and the stream’s audio resumes. This format is available for all eligible livestreams broadcast in normal latency, requiring creators to enable the “Let YouTube Decide” mid-roll setting.

This feature builds on YouTube’s recently launched “Jewels,” a digital gifting system that allows viewers to purchase digital gifts for creators during vertical livestreams. Available to eligible U.S. creators in the YouTube Partner Program, the system converts viewer gifts into “Rubies” that creators can redeem at a rate of one cent per Ruby. 

Voice Replies Expansion

The voice replies expansion allows creators to respond to comments with 30-second voice recordings instead of text. Creators can leave voice replies on their own channels via the main app, and all viewers can engage with these audio comments. Before posting, creators can listen to and re-record their responses.

Google Lens for Shorts

In the coming weeks, viewers can search for what they see in Shorts videos by pausing the content, selecting Lens from the top menu, and highlighting or tapping items of interest. Visual matches and search results appear overlaid on the Short, with users able to easily return to their original content. This feature is unavailable for Shorts with YouTube Shopping affiliate links or paid product promotions.