Hulu Introduces Captions Search Feature
Hulu now offers its users an innovative way to search video content with its new captions search feature. Developed under Hulu Labs, the feature significantly augments search capabilities, particularly for moments within a vast array of shows.
Captions Tab: A New Addition
Hulu has integrated a “Captions” tab on both show and video pages. This tab is the nexus of the new feature, allowing users to search the captions for specific phrases or words.
Eugene Wei of Hulu shared a personal experience to elucidate the feature’s utility: “While watching an episode of House, there was a humorous remark comparing Dr. Foreman (Omar Epps) to Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin. I struggled to recall the specific episode or moment. However, with the caption search, typing in ‘Mike Tomlin’ quickly revealed the episode.”
Thumbnail Previews for Quick Recollection
A nifty feature that complements the caption search is the thumbnail preview. By simply hovering their cursor over an image, users are offered a brief glimpse of the video content. This segment is centered on the entered search term, offering users a concise visual reference.
Global Video Search Evolution
This move by Hulu is not an isolated one. YouTube, the globe’s leading video platform and the second-largest search engine, has made strides in enhancing video searchability. The platform recently incorporated automatic captions on its videos, enabling improved dialogue search.
The Heat Map: An Insight into Viewer Behavior
One standout feature is the “heat map” that Hulu introduced alongside the caption search. Wei elaborates, “This visual representation depicts viewer engagement and interest during a video. It becomes visible at the top of the captions tab for videos that have garnered significant views. Our team evaluates diverse viewer behaviors to curate this map.”
Functioning as both a navigation tool and a popularity indicator, the heat map assists users in pinpointing the most engaging parts of a video.
Beta Phase and Open Feedback
Being in its beta phase, the caption search is continually refined. Hulu welcomes user feedback to hone the feature, urging users to share their experiences and suggestions at feedback@hulu.com.
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