YouTube expands testing of its direct messaging feature across Europe, allowing users to share videos privately. Learn about the rollout, features, and privacy settings.
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YouTube has launched expanded testing of its direct messaging feature across several European countries. The platform confirmed that starting March 3, users in more nations gained access to the new functionality—marking the first significant expansion since the limited test began in November 2025.
The feature was initially trialed only in Ireland and Poland. It enables mobile app users to share videos directly and discuss them in private conversations. The system supports full-length videos, Shorts, and live streams, but is restricted to users aged 18 and over. YouTube has previously described direct messaging as one of the most requested features among its audience.
Now, the list of countries has been substantially widened to cover most European nations, including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, and others. Access is managed through invitations: a link is sent outside the app and remains valid for seven days. Once an invitation is accepted, users can exchange messages and videos within YouTube. By default, recipients can see the sender's channel, though this setting can be disabled in privacy options.
Meanwhile, some users have raised concerns about spam and fraud risks. Discussions on Reddit have already surfaced complaints about cryptocurrency advertising shortly after the feature's activation. YouTube emphasizes that all messaging falls under community guidelines, and users can block or report violators. It's worth noting that the service previously operated a messaging system, but discontinued it in 2019.