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What’s New: YouTube Looks to Improve Its TV App

YouTube looks to improve its TV app with QR codes for shopping and AI-powered upscaling — a move designed to make TV viewing more interactive and smarter in 2025. The platform revealed new updates that let viewers shop directly from videos using scannable QR codes, while AI enhances video quality for big screens. As YouTube continues to dominate living room entertainment, these updates could redefine how audiences engage with content.

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How Do YouTube QR Codes for Shopping Work?

YouTube’s new QR shopping feature allows creators to tag products directly in their videos. Viewers can scan these QR codes with their smartphones to instantly access product pages or creator stores. This seamless link between content and commerce gives creators new monetization options while making it easier for users to buy what they see on-screen. According to YouTube, shopping-related videos have reached 35 billion viewing hours in the past year — a sign that interactive commerce is booming.

What Is AI-Powered Upscaling on YouTube TV?

The update also introduces AI-powered upscaling, improving video sharpness and clarity on large TV screens. This technology automatically enhances lower-resolution videos, offering a smoother and more lifelike viewing experience. As smart TVs become more common, YouTube’s AI integration ensures even older videos look modern, boosting user satisfaction and retention.

Why Is YouTube Focusing on the Living Room Experience?

Recent Nielsen reports show YouTube commands 12.4% of total TV watch time, surpassing Netflix, Disney, and Paramount. By improving its TV interface and adding AI-powered features, YouTube strengthens its lead as the go-to entertainment platform. These updates highlight YouTube’s strategy: blending entertainment, shopping, and technology into one cohesive living room experience.