YouTube is testing a new video player, with a refreshed interface that better aligns with current standards. But it has sparked a backlash from some users. It is particularly criticized for the loss of functionality related to volume control.
YouTube is rolling out a new interface for the video player on its web version. This brings a breath of modernity from an aesthetic point of view, but the few people who received it criticize its lack of ergonomics. We notice that the icons to pause or start playback and to go to the next video at the bottom left are now integrated into a capsule with a transparency effect, as are the duration of the video and the chaptering.
The volume control button is moved to the right of the screen, joining the options for automatic playback, subtitles, quality video, Chromecast, and player format selection (full screen, cinema, reduced). All these elements at the bottom right are no longer displayed independently, but are part of a large, rounded menu bar.
YouTube's new video player is not unanimously approved
This interface is more in line with current design standards. It also has the merit of better highlighting the different options available, which are more visible thanks to the gray background placed behind them. But from an ergonomics point of view, users who have been able to test this new player are not at all satisfied with the way in which the volume of videos is now adjusted.
According to reports, it's no longer possible to simply hover over the volume icon to decrease or increase it on the fly using the control bar that appears. Additionally, the up and down keys on the keyboard are reportedly no longer supported to adjust YouTube's volume. This would be a regression in experience if this information is true, but Google still has time to correct this before forcing its new player on all users.
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