YouTube has added a new “Samples” feature to help users find new tracks and artists through small snippets of the latest trending tracks.

The new Samples tab will use short-form videos as a direct music discovery element to pique the interest of browsing listeners and direct them to the full track. 

This new feature will allow listeners to browse the vast music catalogue on YouTube more efficiently and aims to create more opportunities for new releases, tracks and singles to gain immediate exposure. 

YouTube's increased focus on exploring music is a move to distinguish the platform and claim its space by allowing users to find the next big hit without relying on TikTok discovery. Instead, it pushes users to get music directly from the source, encouraging viewers to engage with artists directly.