YouTube will make your phone a remote control, more info to come at CES 2013

By Lisa Eadicicco January 4, 2013

YouTube blocking microsoft — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Over the past several years, YouTube revolutionized the way people consume video content. It’s hard to believe that the video streaming service has only been around since 2005, and with the rapid evolution of mobile devices YouTube has become an even more prominent source of entertainment.

YouTube is reportedly taking steps to tailor its video player to fit TVs, creating an even smoother streaming transition for connected devices. According to Tech Crunch, the Google-owned video service will be showing off technology that would enable mobile devices to work as remote controls. Partners in the project include manufacturers such as LG, Panasonic, Sony, and Bang and Olufsen.

The company also expects to roll this feature out to other devices throughout the year from electronics makers such as Philips, Samsung, Sharp, Toshiba, Vizio, and Western Digital, among others. The Internet-based video library will also simplify the process of connecting YouTube to other devices in addition to expanding its mobile pairing features.

A YouTube spokesperson reportedly told Tech Crunch that YouTube apps on different devices will automatically recognize that they are operating on the same network and will connect almost instantly. This technology would give YouTube patrons quick and easy access to videos and channels from the mobile app directly to the TV. Users can already control YouTube from their mobile devices, but this update will eliminate the syncing process.

Users will be able to create playlists and queues from their tablet or mobile device to be played on a connected television screen. Even better, multiple users in the room using different devices will be able to contribute to these playlists as well.

In addition introducing new mobile pairing features, YouTube plans to show off its brand new TV interface at CES. This layout is more simple and intuitive, and users can check it out here. The user interface makes it easier to navigate through channels, and with this refreshed branding the company seems to be edging into Netflix’s and Hulu’s game.

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Lisa Eadicicco is a technology and video game reporter based in New York City. She graduated from Purchase College in 2012…

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