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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesYouTube TV’s “Mark as Watched” option is not a new 2026 rollout. YouTube announced it on June 30, 2020, and Google’s current help instructions still document the feature. You can mark a program from a phone, tablet or computer—not directly from a television.
When YouTube TV added Mark as Watched
YouTube announced the option in a June 2020 product update for shows members had already seen. The announcement called it “a top requested feature from our members,” but did not provide a numerical request count.
Recent questions describing the feature as “beginning to roll out” appear to reflect renewed attention rather than a newly verified launch. The documented behavior remains platform-specific.
How to mark a program as watched
On a phone or tablet
- Open the YouTube TV app and find the show or episode.
- Touch and hold the program to open its menu.
- Select Mark as watched.
On a computer
- Open YouTube TV in a web browser and locate the video.
- Select More beside the video.
- Choose Mark as watched.
Can you mark an episode as watched from a TV?
Google’s current instructions state that you can only mark a video as watched on a mobile device or computer. The television interface is therefore not a documented place to perform this action. Use the YouTube TV app on a mobile device or the YouTube TV website on a computer instead.
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What to check if the option is missing
Watch history must be enabled
YouTube TV does not allow you to mark content as watched while watch history is paused. In YouTube TV, open Settings, go to Privacy, and check the watch-history setting. Resume watch history, then try the mobile or computer steps again.
Use a supported interface
If you are looking through a television app, switch to a phone, tablet or computer. The documented menu is available only on those device categories.
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Confirm the menu location
On mobile, the command appears after a long-press. On a computer, it is inside the More menu beside the video; it is not a general playback control on the TV screen.
What the feature changes
Marking a program watched is useful when your viewing history is incomplete—for example, after watching an episode outside YouTube TV or joining a series after several episodes have already been seen. It records the item as watched without requiring you to play the entire video through YouTube TV.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I find “Mark as watched” on my smart TV?
Google documents the action only on a mobile device or computer. Open YouTube TV on a phone, tablet or computer to use the command.
Does pausing watch history affect Mark as Watched?
Yes. YouTube TV requires watch history to be active. Check Settings > Privacy and resume watch history before trying again.
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- Compact without compromises: Our sleek design won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
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