YouTube Music is currently testing a new feature that allows users to filter playlists by genre and mood, similar to a function established by Spotify in 2021. Screenshots shared by users on Reddit show genre and mood filter options appearing directly within playlists, including the extensive Liked Songs collection. This feature enables users to select categories such as Rock, Hip-Hop, or Chill, simplifying the process of sorting through their music libraries.
Once a user selects a main genre, YouTube Music presents sub-genre options for further customization. The filtered queue can then be saved as a new playlist through the “Up Next” menu, making it easier to manage extensive music collections. This development could significantly enhance user experience for those with large libraries, addressing a long-standing user request for better playlist organization.
In contrast, Spotify’s genre and mood filters faced criticism for disappearing or malfunctioning for many users since their introduction. Community forums and Reddit threads from early 2025 indicate ongoing issues, with reports of the filters vanishing, failing to operate, or being removed following app updates. Some Spotify users noted that the platform stopped playing Liked Songs by genre altogether, leading to frustration among listeners.
The testing of YouTube Music’s new feature appears to follow Google’s typical A/B testing strategy. Some users reported seeing the genre filters after recent app updates, while others, particularly in the UK, mentioned not having access to the feature yet. A Reddit user also highlighted another experimental feature involving AI commentary about songs and artists, accessed through a dice icon in the YouTube app. However, it seems these two features are being tested independently, as not all users have access to both.
As the testing phase progresses, feedback from users may shape the potential rollout of these features. For individuals overwhelmed by unorganized Liked Songs, the ability to filter by mood and genre could alleviate years of frustration. Whether Google will commit to a full public launch remains uncertain, but the engagement from users suggests a strong interest in these enhancements.
In summary, YouTube Music’s exploration of genre and mood filters marks a significant step towards improving user interface and experience. As the platform navigates through this testing phase, it remains to be seen how widely these features will be implemented and if they will provide a reliable solution for music organization.
