YouTube’s new autoplay behavior is already triggering thousands of users

YouTube has introduced a new autoplay behavior on Android that is causing frustration among thousands of users. The issue arises when the app is launched after being idle for several hours, causing paused videos to automatically play from the beginning. Users are uncertain whether this behavior is a bug or an intended feature. The widespread dissatisfaction is evident as users search for solutions on YouTube's support pages, reflecting the negative reception of this change.

Given YouTube's status as one of the most widely used entertainment apps, users anticipate a seamless experience, primarily avoiding forceful video suggestions. Although users can prevent auto-playing on their feed or recommendations, this functionality now appears to be increasingly activated upon launching the app on Android devices.

Reports indicate that the problem occurs frequently after the app is reopened after several hours of inactivity, often replaying videos from the start. This issue typically does not occur if the app is launched shortly after closing it.