References to a separate social experience called Tamba have been found in YouTube’s Android app, according to an analysis of version 21.44.534 by Android Authority. The code identifies a separate package, com.google.android.youtube.sandbox, and includes Tamba branding, as well as client identifiers for Android and iOS.
The assets point to a visual style distinct from YouTube’s usual branding. Among the findings are a Tamba wordmark paired with a hand-drawn play-button motif and 38 custom icons for features including search, camera, chat, stickers and a microphone. Other icons depict a crown, a lock, a bookmark and a game controller.
Strings in the app suggest Tamba could support user profiles, following and follow requests, private accounts, and one-to-one and group messaging. Messages may include photos and videos, while posts could receive heart reactions and replies in text, voice notes or YouTube Shorts. The code also references notifications for follows, messages, group chats and post interactions.
The project is labeled “Project Sandbox,” and some of its icons are marked experimental. Android Authority’s analysis notes that the code includes branding, onboarding flows and platform-specific identifiers. However, the name may change, and the findings do not establish a release date or confirm which features would appear in a finished product.
Tamba could become a standalone social app connected to YouTube’s video and Shorts ecosystem, or serve as a testing ground for social features that might later reach the main service. YouTube and Google have not publicly confirmed or denied the project.
Sources: Cord Cutters News.