Have you ever wanted to share that hilarious moment from a YouTube video with your friends, but didn’t want them to have to watch the entire video to get to the good part? Luckily, YouTube has a feature that allows you to share a video starting at a specific time, and it’s super easy to do on mobile devices. Let’s dive into how you can share timestamped YouTube videos on your smartphone or tablet.
Step by Step Tutorial: Sharing Timestamped YouTube Videos on Mobile Devices
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s understand what we’re aiming for. Following these steps will allow you to send a YouTube video link to someone that will start playing at the exact moment you want them to see.
Step 1: Open the YouTube app and find the video
First things first, you need to open up the YouTube app on your mobile device and find the video you want to share.
When you have the video open, you may want to watch it through and decide the precise moment you want to share. Remember, the goal is to make it easy for your friends to see exactly what you want them to see without searching through the video.
Step 2: Tap the Share icon
Once you’ve found the spot in the video, tap the Share icon. It usually looks like a curved arrow or three connected dots.
This will open up the sharing options. YouTube makes it really simple to share to various platforms, but we’re focusing on sharing a link that you can send through any medium.
Step 3: Tap the ‘Start at’ checkbox
In the sharing menu, you’ll see an option that says ‘Start at’ with a timestamp next to it. Tap the checkbox.
The timestamp will automatically set to the current moment in the video. However, you can adjust it if you need to.
Step 4: Adjust the timestamp if needed
If the timestamp isn’t quite right, you can change it by tapping on the time and entering the exact moment you want the video to start.
Make sure the time is correct, because this is the moment your friend’s video will start when they click the link.
Step 5: Choose how to share the link
Now that you have the timestamp set, choose how you want to share the link. You can copy it to your clipboard, send it in a text message, or through any other app or service.
Once you choose the method, the link will be sent with the timestamp included. Your friend will just need to click on it, and the video will start playing from the moment you chose.
After completing these steps, the video link with the specified start time will be sent to the intended recipient. They’ll be able to see the exact part of the video you wanted to share without any fuss.
Tips for Sharing Timestamped YouTube Videos on Mobile Devices
- Double-check the timestamp before sending the link to ensure it starts at the right moment.
- Consider adding a message explaining why you’re sharing that particular part of the video.
- Remember that you can share timestamped videos on any platform that allows for messaging, not just through text messages.
- If you’re sharing a longer video, consider giving a brief context of what happens before the timestamped moment.
- Make sure the video is set to public or unlisted if it’s your own video. If it’s private, the recipient won’t be able to view it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I share a timestamped video on desktop too?
Yes, the process is similar on desktop. Just right-click on the video at the moment you want to share, and select ‘Copy video URL at current time.’
What if the ‘Start at’ checkbox isn’t there?
Make sure you’re using the latest version of the YouTube app. If it’s still not there, try tapping ‘More’ and look for the ‘Start at’ option.
Can I change the timestamp after I’ve shared the link?
No, once the link is shared, the timestamp is set. You’ll need to create a new link if you want a different start time.
Will the video play on loop from the timestamp?
No, the video will continue to play normally after the timestamped moment unless it’s a looped video.
Can I share a timestamped video to a specific person on YouTube?
No, YouTube doesn’t have a direct messaging feature anymore. You’ll need to share the link using another app or service.
Summary
- Open the YouTube app and find the video.
- Tap the Share icon.
- Tap the ‘Start at’ checkbox.
- Adjust the timestamp if needed.
- Choose how to share the link.
Conclusion
Sharing timestamped YouTube videos on mobile devices is a convenient way to highlight specific parts of a video with friends and family. Whether it’s a funny clip, an important piece of a tutorial, or a memorable moment from a vlog, this feature ensures your recipient gets right to the point without any hassle. With the step-by-step guide provided here, you can confidently share videos with timestamped precision. Remember to keep the tips in mind for a smooth sharing experience and refer to the frequently asked questions if any doubts arise. Happy sharing and let the best moments of your favorite videos do all the talking!