After a decade of showcasing viral hits and internet sensations, YouTube is officially retiring its Trending page. Once the go-to spot for discovering what was hot across the platform, the page is being replaced with smarter, more personalized ways to find videos. This shift marks a major change in how we explore content on the world’s biggest video site.
According to TechCrunch, YouTube is saying farewell to its all-in-one Trending list and introducing category-specific charts. These new charts will highlight popular content in areas like music videos, podcasts, and movie trailers. The idea is to give users a more tailored experience, showing them what’s trending in the categories they care about most.
So why the change?
Well, YouTube says that viewer habits have evolved. Back in 2015, when the Trending page launched, it was easier to capture viral moments with a single list. But today, trends are shaped by micro-communities from K-pop fans to gaming enthusiasts making one general list feel outdated. As Hollywood Reporter explains, people now discover trending content through recommendations, search, Shorts, and even comments.
In fact, visits to the Trending page have dropped significantly over the past five years. That’s why YouTube is leaning into its algorithm to help users find videos they’ll love. Personalized suggestions will appear on the Home page, while non-personalized content can still be browsed through the Explore menu, creator channels, and subscriptions feed.
For creators, this change brings both opportunity and uncertainty. The old Trending list was a badge of honor, a sign that your video had made it big. Now, creators will rely on tools like the Inspiration tab in YouTube Studio to spot rising trends.
YouTube is also rolling out features like Hype, which lets viewers boost fresh videos they enjoy. As Beebom notes, the platform is still committed to helping creators grow, even if the spotlight looks a little different.
This move reflects a broader shift in how we consume content. Instead of one-size-fits-all lists, we’re now diving into niche interests and personalized feeds. Whether you’re into true crime podcasts or indie music videos, YouTube wants to make sure you find what you are looking for, without scrolling through a generic trending list.
It’s the end of an era, but also the beginning of a smarter, more customized YouTube. So next time you open the app, don’t be surprised if your homepage feels a little more “you.” The platform is changing, and it’s doing so with your viewing habits in mind.
And who knows? Maybe your next favorite video is already waiting, just not on the Trending page.
A look back at the trending page
The Trending page wasn’t just a list, it was a digital stage where viral stars were born. From hit songs and memes to dramatic vlogs and breakthrough content, it gave millions a chance to see what the internet was buzzing about. For small creators, landing on that page meant a massive spike in views and, sometimes, an overnight career boost.
By retiring this feature, YouTube isn’t dismissing its value, it’s simply saying the spotlight now belongs to a wider, more personalized stage.
