YouTube's Long-Awaited Feature: ABC Testing for Thumbnails

Introduction

• YouTube just released a feature that creators have been asking for over 12 years.
• The feature is known as ABC testing for thumbnails, previously requested by many creators.
• Rolling out quickly, with about 50% of channels having access as of June 13th.

What is ABC Testing?

• Allows creators to upload three different thumbnails for a single video.
• YouTube tests these thumbnails with the audience to determine which one performs best.
• Measured by a metric called “watch time share” instead of click-through rate.

Steps to Check if You Have It

• Go to any video on your channel.
• Click the details button.
• Scroll down to the thumbnail section, click three little dots, and look for the “Test and Compare” option.
• Ensure advanced features are activated.

Restrictions

• Currently available only on the computer version.
• Not available for videos made for kids, mature audiences, or private videos.
• Rolling out to all creators soon.

How it Works

• YouTube shows all three thumbnails to different audience segments.
• Uses watch time share to gauge performance rather than click-through rate.
• Example: Thumbnails that lead to longer watch times will be given preference over those simply clicked more.

Metrics and Data

• No percentages shown until significant data is gathered (approx. 5,000 impressions).
• Tests run for 2 weeks; less than 5,000 impressions result in inconclusive data.
• Possible outcomes: Definite winner label, Preferred label, or Inconclusive label.

Important Considerations

• Smaller channels may struggle to gather sufficient data.
• If the test is inconclusive, the first uploaded thumbnail becomes the default.
• Creators still have the option to manually select their preferred thumbnail.

Future Considerations and Community Feedback

• Some skepticism about effectiveness for small creators.
• Plans to discuss more details and address potential issues in future videos.
• Live Q&A scheduled on June 17th at 8:00 AM MST to discuss testing experiences.

Summary

• This new feature has great potential but may have some limitations, especially for smaller channels.
• Keep an eye on future updates and videos for more insights and detailed data.