YouTube creators can now include more external links on their channels

YouTube is expanding its link listing display on creators’ channel profiles.

The platform now allows you to include up to 14 prominent clickable links near the ‘Subscribe’ button to create awareness of your other platforms, such as websites, social profiles, merch sites and any other links that comply with its Community Guidelines.

The new feature will be visible on desktop and mobile to everyone by August 23.

Check out the images below for a preview of the new layout:

Why we care. This is a quick, easy and cost-effective way to promote a brand’s online presence from YouTube. Your subscribers might not know there are other ways to follow your brand, so let them know and start building stronger relationships with potential customers.

Customization. YouTube is also enabling content creators to customize the titles of external links. In addition, links will appear next to the relevant platform icon for glanceability.

What has YouTube said? A YouTube spokesperson said in a statement:

• “We know that links are an important way for creators to share information and recommend products/brands to their communities, so we’re actively working on safer ways for creators to include important links in their content.”

Deep dive. Read YouTube’s External Link Policy to find out what links are eligible, and check out its Link Updates announcement in full for more information.