YouTube is currently testing the removal of the number of people who do not like it, in response to feedback from creators. However, users on social media claim without proof that this is test function because the administration of Biden requested the technology giant to do so.
Sample posts making this claim can be seen here and here. The text in one post reads: “Biden’s administration has requested that YouTube not remove the score from the public.”
YouTube explained in a tweet here posted on March 30, 2021 that it tests new designs that do not show the number of dislikes on a video in a small experiment.
“Creators, you will still be able to see the exact number of likes and dislikes in YouTube Studio. “For viewers, if you participate in the experiment, you may still like a video or not like sharing feedback with creators and agreeing with the recommendations you see on YouTube,” the tweet said.
YouTube told Reuters in an email that the claim was untrue.
The test responds to the feedback from creators that the public does not like it, affects their well-being and, according to YouTube, can incite a “targeted campaign of disapproval” on a video. The crochet button will not be removed for now and more information about the move can be seen here.
The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters.
VERDICT
Missing context. YouTube is testing designs where the number of dislikes in a video is hidden in response to creator feedback. There is no evidence that the Biden administration asked the company not to keep the score.
This article was produced by the Reuters Fact Check team. Read more about our fact-checking work here.