If you’re like most YouTube users, you’ve probably noticed that the platform tends to keep recommending the same videos repeatedly, even if you’ve already watched them.
If you’re wondering why YouTube keeps recommending the same videos, don’t worry, you’re not alone.
There’s a reason why YouTube might be doing this, which I’ll discuss in this article. Also, I’ll share a few ways you can break out of this algorithm and find new and exciting content on YouTube.
Why YouTube Keeps Recommending the Same Videos
When you watch a video, YouTube tracks your viewing habits and recommends similar videos in an effort to keep you watching. However, if YouTube can’t find more related videos to show you, it’ll keep recommending the same videos.
YouTube’s algorithm is designed to show users content that they’re most likely to engage with.
The platform relies on several factors to determine which videos to recommend, including watch history, search history, and the types of videos you’ve liked or subscribed to in the past.
Suppose you’ve watched a video from a particular channel or liked a specific type of video. In that case, YouTube will assume that you’re interested in that kind of content and will keep recommending it to you.
So if you watch a lot of cat videos, you’re going to see a lot more cat videos in your recommendations.
This can be frustrating if you’re looking for something new, but it’s also one of the things that makes YouTube such an addictive platform.
How to Prevent YouTube from Showing Already Watched or Irrelevant Videos
While there’s no guarantee that you’ll never see the same video twice, there are a few things you can do to help YouTube mix things up a bit.
Mark Videos as “Not Interested”
YouTube has a “not interested” button that allows users to tell the algorithm that they don’t want to see a particular type of video.
On mobile, you can click on the three dots next to the video suggestion and click on either the “Don’t recommend videos from this channel” or “Not interested” option. You can follow the same steps on a PC as well.
This will help YouTube better understand your interests and provide more tailored recommendations in the future.
You can also give specific videos a thumbs up or down to let YouTube know what you like and don’t like. Over time, this feedback will help YouTube better understand your taste and give you more tailored recommendations.
Watch Content from Different Channels
If you only watch videos from the same few channels, try branching out and exploring new content creators.
This will help YouTube understand that you’re interested in a broader range of topics and give you more diverse recommendations.
Search for New Topics
When looking for something new to watch, try searching for specific topics you’re interested in. This will show YouTube that you want to see more videos on those topics, and it should start recommending similar content.
Clear Watch History
YouTube also keeps track of the videos you watch in your “watch history.” This can be found in your account settings. If you want YouTube to start recommending new videos, try clearing your watch history and giving the algorithm a fresh start.
How to Find New YouTube Video Recommendations
Use the “New to you” feature
In July 2021, YouTube introduced a much-awaited feature called “New to you.” This feature shows recommendations of videos you haven’t watched before from channels you may or may not be subscribed to.
It’s based on your watching preferences, so you’ll get unique video recommendations tailored to your interests.
To access this feature, go to the YouTube homepage and scroll right in the explorer bar. It works both on smartphone apps and browsers.
Check the Explore page
The Explore page is a fun way to find new content on YouTube. To access it, click the “Explore” button with a compass icon on the YouTube mobile app. On PC, you can access this page from the left-sidebar menu.
On the explore page, you’ll find a variety of recommendations categorized into different sections, such as Music, Films, Gaming, News, etc. You can also find videos that are trending in your country or globally.
Ads
Top Resources for Youtubers
Wireless Mic for Iphone and Android - Ideal for YouTube, TikTok, Instagram
The YouTube Formula: How Anyone Can Unlock the Algorithm to Drive Views, Build an Audience, and Grow Revenue
Studio Headphones for YouTube, Podcasts, and Music Remixing
Use YouTube Shorts
YouTube Shorts were introduced in September 2020. It’s basically YouTube’s answer to TikTok.
To access YouTube Shorts, click on the “Shorts” option from the bottom menu on your mobile app or the left-sidebar menu on a PC. You can also use the search query “shorts” to find this page.
Conclusion
These are just a few ways to find new and exciting content on YouTube. Try these tips if you’re bored with your current recommendations or do not want YouTube to keep recommending the same videos. You never know what you might find!
