How to Change Your YouTube Layout Back to Normal?

You’re staring at your YouTube homepage, feeling a pang of nostalgia for the familiar layout you knew and loved. Perhaps a recent update has thrown you for a loop, or you’re simply not a fan of the newest design. Don’t fret! While a true “reversion” to a bygone era of YouTube isn’t usually possible due to Google’s ongoing platform updates, there are some practical workarounds you can employ to customize your experience and bring it closer to what you remember as “normal.” These methods primarily focus on managing your viewing habits, employing browser extensions, and understanding YouTube’s current interface.

Understanding YouTube’s Evolution and Your Options

YouTube is a constantly evolving platform. What you remember as “normal” might be a design from years ago, and Google rarely allows users to revert to older versions wholesale. They prioritize universal updates and functionalities. That said, several strategies can help you personalize your viewing experience:

Method 1: Leverage YouTube’s Customization Features

YouTube offers several built-in customization options that can significantly alter how your homepage and channel pages appear.

• Manage Your Subscriptions: The YouTube algorithm heavily relies on your subscription list to populate your homepage. Review your subscriptions and unsubscribe from channels you no longer watch. This will clean up your feed and make it more relevant to your current interests.
• Curate Your Watch History: YouTube’s algorithm uses your watch history to recommend videos. Regularly clear your watch history of videos you don’t want influencing your recommendations. You can also remove specific videos or pause your watch history altogether.
• Utilize the “Not Interested” and “Don’t Recommend Channel” Options: These are your secret weapons! When YouTube suggests a video you’re not interested in, click the three dots next to the video title and select “Not Interested.” If you consistently see videos from a specific channel that you dislike, choose “Don’t Recommend Channel.” These options actively train the algorithm to understand your preferences.
• Create Playlists: Organizing your favorite videos into playlists provides a structured and predictable viewing experience. This can create a sense of order and familiarity, mimicking the feeling of a simpler layout.

Method 2: Employ Browser Extensions (Use with Caution!)

While no browser extension can magically revert YouTube to a specific past layout, some extensions offer customization features that might help. However, a strong word of caution:

• Security Risks: Be extremely wary of browser extensions that claim to modify YouTube’s appearance. Many are malicious and can steal your data or inject unwanted advertisements. Only install extensions from reputable sources and carefully read reviews before installation.
• Functionality Limitations: Even legitimate extensions may not be able to completely alter YouTube’s fundamental layout due to Google’s server-side controls. Their impact may be limited to cosmetic changes or specific functionalities.

That being said, some extensions might offer features like hiding certain elements (comments, suggested videos, etc.) to create a cleaner interface. Look for extensions that offer features like:

• Customizable Themes: Altering the color scheme and overall look of the YouTube interface.
• Element Hiding: Removing distracting elements like suggested videos, comments, or channel banners.
• Focus Mode: Hiding everything except the video player for a more immersive viewing experience.

Important Note: Always research extensions thoroughly and understand the permissions they require before installing. Uninstall any extension that exhibits suspicious behavior.

Method 3: Embrace the New and Adapt

Perhaps the most practical approach is to adapt to the current YouTube layout. While it might be different from what you’re used to, Google introduces changes with specific goals in mind, often related to improved functionality, accessibility, or mobile optimization.

• Explore the New Features: Take the time to understand the new features and functionalities. You might find that they offer unexpected benefits or efficiencies.
• Provide Feedback: If you have specific concerns about the new layout, provide feedback to YouTube through their official channels. While they may not implement every suggestion, user feedback plays a role in shaping future updates.
• Adjust Your Expectations: Ultimately, YouTube’s layout will continue to evolve. Rather than constantly chasing a nostalgic version, focus on learning to navigate and customize the current interface to suit your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I truly revert YouTube to a classic, older layout?

In most cases, no. YouTube’s design is controlled server-side by Google, and they rarely offer options to revert to previous versions. The methods outlined above focus on customization and adaptation, not a true reversion.

2. Are there any legitimate browser extensions that can completely change the layout?

Extremely unlikely. Browser extensions have limited control over server-side elements. While they can offer cosmetic changes or hide certain elements, they cannot fundamentally alter the core layout. Exercise extreme caution when installing extensions, prioritizing reputable sources and carefully reviewing permissions.

3. Why does YouTube keep changing its layout?

YouTube makes changes to improve user experience, functionality, accessibility, and mobile optimization. They also conduct A/B testing on different features to see what performs best. These changes are often driven by data and aimed at benefiting the majority of users.

4. How do I clear my YouTube watch history?

Go to your History page in YouTube (you can find this in the left-hand menu on desktop or in your account settings on mobile). You can then clear your entire watch history or remove individual videos.

5. How do I stop YouTube from recommending unwanted videos?

Use the “Not Interested” and “Don’t Recommend Channel” options. These actively train the algorithm to understand your preferences. You can also manage your subscriptions and clear your watch history.

6. Can I pause my watch history?

Yes. On your History page, you’ll find an option to pause your watch history. When paused, YouTube will not record the videos you watch, preventing them from influencing your recommendations.

7. How do I manage my YouTube subscriptions?

Go to the Subscriptions page (accessible from the left-hand menu). You can unsubscribe from channels you no longer watch and organize your subscriptions into groups.

8. Is it safe to use third-party apps to modify YouTube’s appearance?

Generally, no. Third-party apps that claim to completely overhaul YouTube’s interface are often unreliable and may pose security risks. Stick to using YouTube’s built-in customization options and, if you choose to use browser extensions, do so with extreme caution.

9. How can I provide feedback to YouTube about the layout?

Look for the “Send feedback” option, typically located in the settings menu or at the bottom of the page. This allows you to directly communicate your concerns and suggestions to YouTube.

10. Will YouTube ever bring back the classic layout?

It’s highly unlikely. YouTube prioritizes universal updates and rarely reverts to older versions. Focus on adapting to the current layout and using the available customization options to tailor your experience.

11. How does YouTube’s algorithm work?

YouTube’s algorithm is complex, but it primarily considers your watch history, search history, subscriptions, and interactions (likes, dislikes, comments) to determine which videos to recommend.

12. What’s the best way to keep my YouTube homepage clean and relevant?

Regularly manage your subscriptions, clear your watch history, and utilize the “Not Interested” and “Don’t Recommend Channel” options. This proactive approach will ensure that your homepage is populated with videos that align with your interests.