YouTube’s latest experiment adds Shorts to Smart Downloads

The feature is live for YouTube Premium subscribers.

YouTube’s latest experiment adds Shorts to Smart Downloads
YouTube Shorts 1
Credit: Joe Hindy / Android Authority
  • YouTube is testing a new feature that automatically downloads recommended Shorts for offline viewing.
  • The downloaded Shorts will appear in the Smart Downloads section in the YouTube app.
  • The limited-time feature is available for YouTube Premium members on Android.

YouTube’s Smart Downloads feature can come in clutch at times when you don’t have an active internet connection, as it automatically downloads recommended videos for offline viewing. YouTube is now testing Shorts support for the feature for those who prefer binging on short-form videos on the platform.

Smart Downloads support for YouTube Shorts is now available as part of a limited-time experiment for YouTube Premium users. It’s an opt-in feature that you can enable by heading to the Your Premium benefits section in the YouTube app and selecting the Try experimental new features option.