YouTube has introduced a new feature called video A/B testing, which allows content creators to test up to three different versions of the same video at the same time. This tool, announced during the Made on YouTube 2026 conference on September 23, lets creators experiment with different video elements such as introductions, length, or other aspects. The version that keeps viewers watching the longest will be selected as the final one. This is an extension of previous testing tools, which allowed creators to test up to three thumbnails since 2024 and three titles since late 2025. While YouTube has not detailed the exact criteria for choosing the best version, it is expected to be based on watch time, similar to how thumbnails and titles are tested. In addition to the A/B testing feature, YouTube has announced several new tools inspired by its competitors. These include "live duels," where creators can compete in live streams, similar to a feature on TikTok. It also plans to let users organize Shorts—short-form videos—into seasons and episodes, a format popular in Asian microdramas. Viewers will soon be able to describe their preferences in their own words and save multiple personalized recommendation feeds, such as a feed of relaxing videos for before bed. YouTube is also testing real-time automatic dubbing of live streams in English and Spanish, with more languages expected to be added in the coming year. Other updates include conversational editing tools for Shorts and YouTube Create, which aim to make video editing more intuitive. AI-generated thumbnails in YouTube Studio will help creators design eye-catching visuals more easily. Additionally, the Likeness ID tool, which detects deepfakes, will be expanded to mobile devices and will also apply to creator voices. YouTube also plans to expand its affiliate shopping program to 35 countries by the end of 2026, with Amazon joining as a new partner in several regions. However, the rollout of these features will happen gradually, and the company has not shared a specific timeline for each country. This has left some uncertainty about when users in France, for example, will get access to these new features compared to those in the United States.