YouTube is set to expand the reach of videos across the globe as it allows thousands more creators to include multi-language audio tracks with their videos.
The feature was previously being tested with a select group of creators, but starting Thursday, many more will be able to include multi-language dubs to make their videos accessible to broader audiences.
Users can try this feature by going to MrBeast’s YouTube channel and clicking on the gear icon to access the “audio track” option. Videos will also default to a user’s preferred language.
According to YouTube’s early tests, as of January, over 3,500 multi-language videos have already been uploaded in over 40 different languages.
Multi-language dubbed videos have reportedly shown increased watch time, with 15 percent coming from “views in the video’s non-primary language” in January.
This move will allow creators to reach a wider audience without maintaining separate channels to host videos in different languages.
The expansion of the feature comes at a time of transition for YouTube, with CEO Susan Wojcicki stepping down and chief product officer Neal Mohan taking her place as the new head of the platform.
This move is expected to be seen positively by creators looking to break down language barriers and reach a wider audience.