YouTube has rolled out its first standalone end-of-year recap for watched videos. The feature aims to enhance user engagement through personalized insights, following the popularity of existing recap formats across digital platforms. The new experience is separate from YouTube Music’s yearly recap and focuses solely on viewing activity on the main platform.
Users will now receive a set of 12 personalized cards. Each card highlights top channels, dominant interests, viewing trends and the evolution of their consumption patterns. Additionally, the feature assigns a content-based personality type, offering a deeper understanding of how users interact with the platform.
New Personality Types Reflect Viewing Style
The recap introduces several personality categories. These categories describe how people select and enjoy video content.
For example, the “Skill Builder” prefers videos that improve abilities. The “Sunshiner” gravitates toward uplifting and positive content. Meanwhile, “Trailblazers” enjoy exploring new formats and unique creators.
Other types, including the “Wonder Seeker,” “Connector,” and “Dreamer,” help define broader viewing motivations. These categories ensure users understand how their habits influenced their year online.
Integration With YouTube Music Recap
The new recap also shows top artists and songs. However, deeper music insights remain available within the YouTube Music app. That recap launched recently and includes long-term listening patterns and genre preferences.
Rollout Begins in North America
The feature is currently live for users in North America. However, a global rollout is scheduled within the week. Viewers can find their recap directly on the YouTube homepage. They can also access it under the “You” tab. The experience is available across mobile and desktop devices.
Feature Developed After Extensive User Testing
YouTube stated that the recap was created in response to community demand. The company tested more than 50 concepts before finalizing the design. This process ensured that the final version matched user expectations.
Alongside the recap launch, YouTube also published year-end trend charts. These charts highlighted standout creators, podcasts and songs. MrBeast secured the top creator position for the sixth consecutive year. “The Joe Rogan Experience” led the podcast category. Meanwhile, the top song spot went to Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga for “Die with a Smile.”
Competition Among Streaming Platforms Intensifies
The launch coincides with annual recaps from other platforms. Apple Music’s Replay and Amazon Music’s 2025 Delivered went live on the same day. Meanwhile, Spotify’s highly anticipated Wrapped is still pending, giving rivals an opportunity to capture social media attention earlier.
As recap features continue to dominate the digital landscape, YouTube’s new experience adds another layer of personalization and engagement for its global audience.
