YouTube tests burying the dislike button in a hidden menu
YouTube is reportedly testing a UI change that moves the dislike button from its standard position next to the like button into a hidden three-dots menu. This follows previous moves to hide dislike counts and remove the button from Shorts, potentially reducing user feedback on video quality.
Key points
- Screenshots from X and Reddit show the dislike button now located inside the three-dots overflow menu for some users.
- The change appears to be a limited test, primarily on the desktop website, with most users still seeing the traditional layout.
- Google has not yet commented on the reports, and it is unclear if the change will be rolled out broadly.
- This move follows the 2021 decision to hide public dislike counts and the recent removal of the dislike button from YouTube Shorts.
Background
In 2021, YouTube hid public dislike counts to protect creators from harassment, though creators could still see the numbers. Earlier in 2026, YouTube removed the dislike button entirely from Shorts, directing users to use 'Not Interested' or 'Don't recommend this channel' options in the menu instead.
How outlets are covering it
The Verge and The Times of India report that the change is likely a test, noting that Google has not confirmed it. PhoneArena emphasizes that while the change may be temporary, it mirrors the permanent removal of the dislike button on Shorts. All sources agree that moving the button to a submenu makes it less accessible, potentially reducing the volume of negative feedback sent to the recommendation algorithm.
Why it matters
Reducing the visibility of the dislike button could limit viewers' ability to signal poor content quality, potentially affecting how YouTube's algorithm filters out low-quality videos. It continues a trend of prioritizing creator protection over transparent user feedback.
What to watch
Watch for official confirmation from Google or YouTube regarding whether this is a permanent change or a limited A/B test. Monitor if the change expands to mobile apps or becomes permanent for all users.
- YouTube might be testing hiding the dislike button The Verge
- YouTube starts hiding the dislike button on normal videos 9to5Google
- YouTube could make disliking videos even more difficult PhoneArena
- After Shorts, Google making it harder to dislike all YouTube videos now Neowin
- YouTube may be making the dislike button harder to find on videos The Times of India
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