YouTube Deploys AI to Create Custom Playlists for Users, With a Twist

YouTube has begun rolling out AI-generated playlists, allowing users to create customised mixes using simple text or voice prompts. With the help of artificial intelligence, the platform can instantly build playlists tailored to a user’s request. However, there’s a catch — the feature is currently available only to YouTube Premium subscribers.

Premium users — including those subscribed via Google One — can generate AI-powered playlists across both YouTube and YouTube Music. The feature is accessible on Android and iOS devices and is part of Google’s broader push toward integrating AI tools to deliver more personalised content experiences.

How to Use YouTube’s AI Playlist Feature

To access the feature, Premium subscribers need to head to the Library tab in the YouTube app, tap on “New,” and select “AI playlist.” Users can then enter a prompt via text or voice. Requests can range from genres like “death metal” or “sad post-rock” to mood-based mixes such as “house music for a chill party” or “90s Bollywood classic hits.” Within seconds, the AI curates a personalised playlist based on the input.

YouTube’s move follows similar AI-driven playlist features already introduced by competitors such as Spotify and Amazon Music. With this rollout, YouTube is stepping further into AI-enhanced music discovery.

Part of a Larger AI Strategy

This isn’t YouTube’s first experiment with generative AI. In July 2024, the company tested a tool that allowed users to create custom radio stations using prompts. The new AI playlist generator builds on that concept, offering a more refined and widely available experience — albeit limited to paying subscribers.

The rollout comes as YouTube continues to add value to its Premium subscription. Recently, the platform was spotted testing a change that removed lyrics access for some non-subscribers, hinting that certain features may soon become Premium-exclusive.

Earlier this month, Google revealed that it has surpassed 325 million paying subscribers across its platforms, including YouTube Premium and Google One — underscoring its growing subscription ecosystem.