YouTube is testing a new button layout on its Android app, removing text from the buttons located under the video player. The redesign also repositions the likes count away from the like button.
This latest testing phase follows a previous redesign implemented in October, which featured bolder button appearances. Users have spotted the new design on devices including the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and the OnePlus 15, both running Android 16. Reports from other Android Authority team members confirm the change appears sporadically across various devices.
In addition to the removal of text from buttons, the redesign includes several smaller modifications. The channel’s name has been replaced by the username and relocated above the channel logo. The views and likes count has been moved higher on the interface, while the Save and Download buttons are now accessible via an expandable three-dot menu.
The changes are visible in version 21.23.487 of the YouTube app. Users on Reddit have also reported seeing the redesign, indicating that it is part of a scattered testing initiative. Feedback from users indicates a general dissatisfaction with the new layout.
This redesign experiment coincides with YouTube’s ongoing trials of hiding the dislike button on YouTube Shorts, opting instead for a heart feature similar to that of Instagram and TikTok.
For users who may dislike the changes, it is important to note that these modifications may not be permanent, as YouTube frequently tests design updates that do not always make it to the final version.
