After testing got underway last year, YouTube is now more widely rolling out a new in-app messaging system. The aim is to let people “connect over their favorite videos directly on YouTube.”

Once available, the top-right corner of the YouTube app will show a new messaging icon. This system lets you share videos, Shorts, or livestreams and have 1:1 conversations. 

One nuance of this capability is how you can only talk with a person after inviting them using a URL. That invite link (valid for 7 days) must be sent using a third-party chat platform. It’s designed to let you have conversations with friends and family that you already know, rather than the broader YouTube audience. 

In testing last year, YouTube said this was a “top feature request,” and something it previously offered until removing in 2019.

After the recipient clicks that link, they have to “Allow messaging” or select “Not now.” This makes YouTube’s messaging feature a bit more narrow and just focused on video sharing. Additionally, unlisted video links can be shared, but not private ones.

Messaging in YouTube is only available for users 18 and older, with “Community Guidelines appl[ied] to all shared content and messages.” Messages can be unsent, while there’s the ability to block users from messaging you again and reporting conversations. 

Invite system aside, this is a straightforward chat capability. When watching a video, opening the Share menu will show available contacts. The YouTube app will also send notifications when you receive new messages.

YouTube started testing this capability in November across Europe. Messaging is now rolling out to YouTube users in the US, UK, Brazil, and Singapore.