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YouTube makes it easy to resume watching a mobile video on desktop
YouTube has a new feature that allows you to quickly switch from smartphone to desktop when watching a video.
YouTube will soon let you crowdfund projects directly on the site
Plenty of users weren't happy when YouTube ditched its commenting system in favor of Google+, and following that backlash the video-sharing service has been working hard to prove it's listening. Its latest effort is a "Creator Preview" video teasing upcoming features inspired by the feedback of channel owners. These include a standalone mobile app with more useful tools and a new crowd-funding option that lets you contribute money directly through YouTube.
Nintendo bringing YouTube to 3DS later this month, Wii U version to get refreshed
Sony's PlayStation 4 has surely taken over today's headlines, but that's not stopping Nintendo from making some news of its own. The company today announced that a YouTube application is coming to the 3DS at long last, giving users a chance to search, browse and watch videos right from the handheld system. What's more, Nintendo also said the Wii U's YouTube app will be getting overhauled in the coming weeks, complete with GamePad-focused search features and a variety of user interface enhancements. YouTube for the Nintendo 3DS is expected to arrive in North America and Europe by the end of this month -- in the meantime, you can keep watching those Francis rants on one of many other devices.
Vevo opts out of offline video on YouTube's mobile apps
When YouTube's offline viewing feature launches in November, don't expect to find Vevo on board. According to Variety, the music video service has opted out of the functionality, which will let users download videos on Youtube mobile apps for up to 48 hours of offline playback. YouTube reportedly gave Vevo and other partners a chance to opt out of the upcoming feature, so -- while Vevo is the site's biggest content supplier -- this news is hardly scandalous. It makes sense, too; the music video provider has its own apps to promote, after all.
YouTube for Google TV updated with streamlined UI, support for paid subscriptions
Google TV is getting a refreshed YouTube app to go along with its update to the latest versions of Android and Chrome. The video-streaming service now features a sleeker UI, complete with playlists displayed under the video discovery and subscription tabs and larger thumbnails for previewing content. The update also lets you subscribe to a channel with just one click, and it's now easier to share a clip via Google + as well. Other additions include more in-depth playback controls and support for paid subscriptions. Google TV owners can download the update now -- just hit up the source link below.
Google asks Microsoft to remove YouTube app for WP8, takes issue with lack of ads (update: Microsoft responds)
YouTube only recently came to Windows Phone 8 as a full-fledged app, but its availability may be short-lived. According to documents obtained by The Verge, Google has requested that Microsoft remove the app from it Windows Phone Store -- and disable installations on devices -- immediately. The reason? Apparently the app didn't get Goog's stamp of approval before going live, and it blocks the ads that typically run on YouTube. Naturally, ads are an important source of revenue for both Google and no shortage of third parties, so Mountain View may not be out of line for crying foul. And that's not the only strike against Redmond: according to the cease and desist letter, YouTube on WP8 lets users download videos, in addition to streaming content that's been restricted on certain devices. Oh, and all the above-mentioned issues violate YouTube's Terms of Service. Google is giving MS until May 22nd to remove the app -- we're sure this isn't the last you'll hear on this subject. Update: Microsoft has responded. We have the full statement from a Microsoft spokesperson after the break.
YouTube advances cash for 60 more original channels in Europe and the US
Google pulls in nearly $2 billion a year in YouTube advertising revenue, but that's still a drop in the bucket compared to the $60 billion earned by broadcast networks. To rely less on viral cat videos or "Gangnam Style" breakouts, the company has announced that it's advanced funds to content producers like Jamie Oliver and Michael Cera to create 60 new original channels in France, the UK, Germany and the US. That's in addition to the 100 channels it already created last year, and Mountain View also said it would take that original launch up a notch in 2013 by providing even more funds to the most successful efforts by artists like Jay Z and Amy Poehler. The company didn't say exactly how much cash would be raining down to all those channels stateside or abroad, but considering the amount it recently spent just marketing them, you may want to pull the trigger on that new cinema camera, after all.
YouTube releases standalone app for iOS, tablet-tailored version in the works
There was much (some?) tearing of clothes and gnashing of teeth when Apple pulled its YouTube app from iOS 6. That pain was lessened by Google's promise of a standalone app to replace it, and now Big G's version has arrived, ready to be installed on the legions of new iPhones to come. YouTube's touting the app's fresh channel guide -- that lets users swipe from left to right to reveal a screen with easy access to their channel subscriptions -- and better search features as the main attractions of the new software. Oh, and for folks with ten-inch Apple screens, YouTube has assured us that its engineers are back in the lab cooking up an iPad-specific version set to show up "in the coming months." Until then, the phone version will have to suffice, and you can grab it at the iTunes source link below.
Daily Update for August 6, 2012
It's the TUAW Daily Update, your source for Apple news in a convenient audio format. You'll get all the top Apple stories of the day in three to five minutes for a quick review of what's happening in the Apple world. You can listen to today's Apple stories by clicking the inline player (requires Flash) or the non-Flash link below. To subscribe to the podcast for daily listening through iTunes, click here. No Flash? Click here to listen. Subscribe via RSS
YouTube app removed from iOS 6 but not iOS 5 and older; Google working on a standalone version
Apple just got in touch with us regarding the removal of the YouTube app in the latest beta of iOS 6, and while it wouldn't say much, it did confirm the obvious: it's not there for a reason. The licensing deal it had with Google "has ended, but users can still use YouTube via the Safari web app." The company did affirm, however, that Google "is working" on another version -- presumably a standalone app that'll have to survive the same App Store approval process as Google Drive, Gmail for iOS and the rest of the bunch. Interestingly, we were told that the YouTube app "would remain on iOS 5 and older," and that includes iPhone, iPod touch and iPad. Granted, the amount of iOS 5 users will dip dramatically in the months following iOS 6's release this fall, but it leaves open the question of compatibility -- will the forthcoming YouTube app for iOS 6 be installable on iOS 5 and older? All things considered, it's probably a good thing for consumers. Yes, it's another play by Apple to distance itself from its biggest mobile OS rival (Maps, anyone?), but it also gives Google the chance to reimagine the YouTube app, and perhaps even design it to showcase a great mobile experience around the company's huge original content push. Apple wouldn't comment on the status of Google's new YouTube app, nor would it speak to whether or not it had even been submitted for approval, but we're guessing the clock watchers know that September 12th is drawing near. Update: A YouTube spokesperson has provided us with the following quote: "We are working with Apple to ensure we have the best possible YouTube experience for iOS users." Not much to go on, really, but reassuring that the company's actively forging ahead with a new effort. Something tells us it'll take every opportunity to trumpet the awesomeness of its standalone app after being quietly pushed / left out of the latest iOS 6 beta.
YouTube will kick in an extra $200 million to market new channels
Google's about to expand its original content experiment by spreading another $200 million around marketing its new video channels, as it announced in May. The original $150 million, which created nearly 100 new YouTube channels with notables like Amy Poehler and NBA Star Blake Griffin, apparently caught on with advertisers who were willing to pay a premium to appear alongside branded, non-crummy content. It's also popular with the creative set, who like the instant feedback and flexibility to take a show 180 degrees if needed in order to draw eyeballs. Mountain View could also possibly bring the more polished programs to French and British viewers by next year, according to WSJ sources. If it does, and you're on that side of the pond, you may want to get your pitch in order. Update: Google confirmed they won't be investing money on any new channels or production, as originally reported -- the $200 million is for marketing only.
Sony's PlayStation Vita has a YouTube app headed its way by the end of June
Assuming all that gaming, Facebooking and Tweeting isn't enough action for your PS Vita, Sony announced tonight it will get a YouTube app by the end of the month. Considering the built in web browser doesn't handle HTML5 or Flash video, native apps are still necessary to fill out its video streaming lineup. The company's US blog hasn't posted any pics yet, but Engadget Japan has a few screen grabs of what it will look like. Check after the break for another pic, while we wonder what other surprises Sony has planned in the run up to E3 2012.
Google TV YouTube app updated for better recommendations, search and sharing
It only makes sense that the Google TV initiative to increase personalization would extend to videos served up from its YouTube site, and now the official app has been updated to do just that. The new version brings recommendations meant to pull gems you might like out of the ever growing pile of content available, as well as a way to search between the new YouTube channels on your TV. Also users should notice improved video quality since the app will automatically try to play content at the best available resolution from the start, and if they find something interesting, it now supports +1 sharing to Google+. The new app is already live on Google Play, compatible devices should be pointed that way for the new experience.
Vizio welcomes YouTube as part of its Internet Apps arsenal
Not long after bringing some Redmond vid-calling to your living room, Vizio's introducing another app that may just enhance your couch entertainment. Via its Twitter account, the outfit announced YouTube will now be a part of its Internet App portfolio. Though, it's worth mentioning the Tweet didn't specify if it'll support all internet-ready TV models. The Tube (as the cool kids are calling it) is joining the likes of Hulu Plus and Blockbuster On Demand as part of Vizio's entertainment offerings. We know you can't wait to make yourself cry watching Kony 2012, so be on the lookout for the Google-owned video service to hit your smart TV shortly.
YouTube Android app update brings HD video streaming to 'capable' 2.2+ devices
Honeycomb and Ice Cream Sandwich Android-running hardware has had access to HD resolution YouTube streams since launch (as seen above), but an update to the app that rolled out yesterday finally brings HD to some devices running Froyo or Gingerbread. The catch is that YouTube HD res won't work on every Android 2.2 or 2.3 phone or tablet, as we're told it is set dynamically based on screen size and resolution. Another quirk is that some devices still won't install the updated version directly from the Market, like our Epic 4G Touch. Still, assuming you can snag the update -- through official or unofficial means -- if you have the pixels to spare you should see upgraded video quality from now on.[Thanks, Gideon]
YouTube app for Xbox 360 rolls out to preview program participants
It's only available to those in the Xbox Live preview program at the moment, but you can officially add the Xbox 360 to the list of platforms that offer access to YouTube videos. Beta participants should be now able to download the app from the console's new Apps Marketplace, and find all the usual personalized features you'd expect from YouTube, plus the Kinect controls you'd expect from an Xbox app. Still no word about a roll-out to everyone else, nor is there any word on a firm release date for all those other new video services slated to hit the console (they're still just promised for "later in December"). [Thanks, Jack]
LG Optimus 3D features YouTube 3D app for multi-dimensional sharing
Now that the LG Optimus 3D is official, we know what you're wondering: why would I want 3D how can I share 3D video from my new dual-core cellphone? Easy, the YouTube 3D channel. LG's new twin-lens handset features a YouTube 3D video application that lets owners upload their 3D flicks in snap. So get ready to bust out the paper anaglyph glasses folks. Our future, as envisioned by a 1950s 3D-film audience, has arrived.
iPad apps: video for the well-rounded couch potato
We totally would have had this roundup done earlier, but we were just way too busy watching TV on our iPads. Let's face it, as fun as those social networking and gaming applications are (sorry, utility apps -- no fun for you!) sometimes you just want to sit back, rest those fingers and soak in some drama. The iPad's 9.7-inch, 1024 x 768-resolution screen certainly looks nice when reading books and browsing the web, but you haven't seen anything until you get some HD content playing. Though we may never get over the fact that we can't watch Flash video in the browser, the following apps are just what the doctor ordered to ease the pain and turn Apple's tablet into a portable media viewing machine. What are you waiting for? Hop on past the break already, and then kindly let us know if you've come up with a good way to prop up the iPad so you can watch all that video goodness while laying down.
