YouTube tests out new ways to experience video

YouTube has launched new experimental features for Premium members The new features are only available for a limited amount of time Premium members also have access to ad-free videos and downloads

(NewsNation) — YouTube is experimenting with how its Premium users interact with video.

The following features are available for Premium members to try out, but they’re only available until early or mid-August.

Avoid accidental taps while watching

A new lock screen button disables touch while watching a video, so accidental taps do not pause, skip or disrupt the video Tap on the gear icon in the top left corner of the screen and select “Lock screen” Available until Aug. 5

Double the playback speed of video

Double the playback speed of a video to potentially save time while watching “Long press” anywhere on the player while watching a video to automatically bump the playback speed to 2x Available until Aug. 13

Bigger previews available while scrolling

The preview thumbnail users see when moving forward or backwards in a video is enlarged “This makes it easier to find the exact moment in the video you want to watch,” per YouTube Available until Aug. 13

YouTube Premium costs $13.99 per month.