YouTube is getting back into the messaging business with a new feature. The platform now allows users to send direct messages to each other. The company started testing this feature for the first time in November 2025. But testing was quite limited. Only some users in Ireland and Poland were able to access it.
On March 3, 2026, YouTube shared a new update. The company announced that the feature has been rolled out to more countries in Europe. The total number has now reached 31 countries.
The new messaging system is now available in many European countries. Austria, Belgium, Germany, Greece, France and Italy are among these countries.
The list is not limited to these. However, YouTube has not yet announced a date for users in the Americas.
There are some conditions to use the feature. First, users must verify that they are over 18 years old.
Google uses an artificial intelligence-supported age verification system for this. The system also analyzes viewing habits in some cases.
Additionally, users must have a YouTube account. The message feature does not work without logging into the account.
YouTube developed this feature for one purpose. Easier to share videos with friends.
Users will now be able to send a video via direct message without copying the link.
YouTube did not connect this feature to a YouTube Premium or YouTube Premium Lite subscription.
Therefore, the feature can be used by all eligible users in the opened countries.
Photos: DepoPhotos
