YouTube has announced that it is replacing annotations with a new "cards" system that will work across desktop and mobile platforms. The new feature allows creators to overlay text in a Google Now-like format that YouTube says is "as beautiful as your videos."
The new annotations have more of a card-style user interface, which Google has been using across its products lately, including services like Google+ and Google Now. The small, rectangular-shaped cards will appear as teasers to the right of the video and can be accessed with just a click. Users also have the option to ignore the teaser and it will go away allowing you to watch the video uninterrupted. The internet giant describes cards as “an evolution of annotations.”
YouTube has launched six different card types including videos demonstrating Merchandise, Playlist, Video, Associated Website, Fundraising and Fan Funding cards. Creators can access the cards via the new cards tab in the video editor and just add a destination URL. The feature also allows creators to customize the image and title. The cards will be available in live streams and will also support YouTube Analytics.
Earlier this week, YouTube announced 360 degree video formats for its mobile and desktop users. Viewers can see different angles in the 360-degree videos by moving their smartphone around. Desktop users will have to click on the mouse and drag it to the desired angle. The new feature is available on YouTube's Android app and Chrome browser on desktop for now. It will be launched on iOS and other platforms later.
Source: YouTube Creator Blog