YouTube launches an AI-based playlist generator, but only a small portion of users use it

YouTube introduces AI playlist generation for Premium subscribers

YouTube continues to expand the capabilities of its paid tier by adding a new feature that creates playlists using artificial intelligence. The new option is available only to YouTube Premium users and works on both iOS and Android.

How to use it
1. Open the app and go to the “Library” section.

2. Tap “New” → select “AI Playlist.”

3. Enter or speak a description of the desired mix:

* “angry metal,” “sad blues,”

* “progressive house‑mix for a party,” “classic hits from the ’90s,” etc.

The AI will automatically pick tracks, and in the near future there may be a feature to listen to a playlist without manually selecting each song.

Context
In July 2024 YouTube was already testing a similar technology—radio stations based on text prompts across the United States. Now the service offers broader personalization options for content.

Takeaways

* The new tool enhances the appeal of the Premium subscription, which the company is using to retain and grow its paid user base.

* In recent statements Google noted an increase in subscription revenue: this month there were 325 million paid accounts across Google One and YouTube Premium services.

What’s happening with free users
Recently YouTube introduced a restriction on song lyrics for some non‑subscribed users, claiming it was an experiment “with a small percentage of the audience,” while most free viewers can still view lyrics.

Competitive landscape
Spotify, Amazon Music, and Deezer are also developing AI features for playlist and radio station generation, competing for music enthusiasts’ attention.