YouTube has started expanding its redesigned direct messaging feature to a much larger audience, bringing private in-app conversations back to the platform after several years. The feature is currently available in the United States, United Kingdom, Brazil, and Singapore, while YouTube plans to introduce it in additional markets as part of a broader global rollout.
The move marks the return of a messaging tool that YouTube previously operated between 2017 and 2019 before shutting it down to focus on public engagement. Now, the company has reintroduced the feature with a fresh design that aims to make content sharing faster and more convenient for users who regularly exchange videos and livestreams.
Users who receive access will notice a messaging icon in the top-right corner of the app, allowing them to start private conversations. Moreover, users can share videos, Shorts, and livestreams directly through the built-in chat system by tapping the share button, creating a smoother experience without leaving the platform.
Unlike traditional messaging services, YouTube limits communication to text messages and YouTube-related content only. Users cannot send photos, GIFs, documents, or other media files through the chat feature. As a result, the platform keeps its messaging system focused on video discovery, recommendations, and content discussions rather than general communication.
To reduce spam and unwanted contact, YouTube has introduced an invitation-based system for adding new connections. Users must first send an invitation through services such as SMS, WhatsApp, or iMessage, and recipients must accept before conversations can begin. Additionally, the feature is restricted to users aged 18 years and older.
Meanwhile, YouTube has included several safety tools to protect users and maintain a secure environment. Community Guidelines apply to all private chats, while users can block contacts, report conversations, and unsend messages when necessary. The company first tested the feature in Ireland and Poland during late 2025 before expanding it across more than 30 European countries in March 2026, making the latest rollout its largest expansion so far.