“What’s trending?”
Well, YouTube just changed the way we answer that question — forever.
YouTube is officially retiring its legendary “Trending” tab, and honestly, it’s a plot twist that nobody saw coming but now totally makes sense. If you’re someone who hits that tab daily (or used to), grab your popcorn. This one’s for you.
The Rise and Fall of the YouTube Trending Tab
Back in the day, when Despacito ruled the internet and “What are those?!” was peak comedy, YouTube’s Trending page was the holy grail of viral content. One magical scroll showed you what the world was watching — cats, flash mobs, Vine stars, and more cats.
But oh, how times have changed.
Enter the Era of Microtrends
In 2025, there’s no one-size-fits-all trend. What’s blowing up in a K-pop fandom might not even register in the world of tech reviews or cooking channels.
As YouTube put it:
“Today, trends consist of many videos created by many fandoms… and there are more micro-trends enjoyed by diverse communities than ever before.”
Translation? The internet broke into a million niche bubbles — and YouTube finally noticed.
Why the YouTube Trending Tab is Being Removed in 2025
After years of declining visits and criticism from creators who felt Trending favored big media over indie voices, YouTube is officially pulling the plug. Within weeks, the Trending page and “Trending Now” list will disappear, replaced by something cooler, smarter, and more aligned with how we watch today.
What’s Replacing the YouTube Trending Tab: Meet YouTube Charts
Instead of one mega-list of viral videos, you’ll now explore:
- Trending Music Videos
- Weekly Top Podcasts
- Popular Movie Trailers
- Gaming Explore Page
- And more categories on the way
This lets you track what’s hot in the stuff you actually care about. Finally — no more scrolling past twelve music videos to find that one funny cooking tutorial.
But Wait, There’s AI
Don’t panic. You’re not left guessing what to watch.
YouTube’s smart AI already knows you’re obsessed with underwater welding or ASMR cookie decorating. Through personalized recommendations, it serves you videos tailored to your tastes like a gourmet content buffet.
Plus, creators get new tools like:
- The Inspiration Tab – AI-generated video ideas in YouTube Studio
- Hype – A promotional tool that lets fans boost videos to a wider audience
It’s like Reddit upvotes, but with more views and potential fame.
Creators, Rejoice
Gone are the days of battling record labels and trailer drops for a sliver of Trending fame. This new system helps level the playing field, giving small creators a real shot at discovery through:
- Niche charts
- Viewer-boosted visibility
- Smart recommendations
So if you’re the next big creator waiting to be discovered — your time starts now.
TL;DR: YouTube Just Got Personal
RIP Trending (2015–2025)
Hello, Charts and AI-driven discovery
YouTube’s latest update isn’t just a redesign — it’s a reflection of how we consume content today. It’s faster, smarter, more diverse, and way more fun.
So next time you’re hunting for what’s trending, don’t bother looking for that old tab. Let the Charts guide your passion and let AI know your guilty pleasures (yes, slime videos count).
Bonus: Quick Tips
- Bookmark YouTube Charts
- Use the Inspiration tab in YouTube Studio for smart content ideas
- Ask your fans to boost you via Hype (if you’re a creator)
What do you think of this change?
Did you use the Trending tab? Or are you already living in the future with Shorts and suggestions?
Drop your thoughts in the comments, share this with your favorite creators, and let’s say goodbye to the old YouTube in style.
