As YouTube Shorts continues to compete with Tiktok, the platform is unveiling new features coming up to help creators publish compelling short form videos.
Creators have access to improved video editors, the ability to generate AI stickers, the ability to sync content to the beats of songs, and enhanced templates.
The launch of the new tool will take place just a few days before the TIKTOK ban period on April 5th. Given the timing of the announcement, YouTube could be trying to exploit the platform for potential gaps left by Tiktok if it faces a ban in the US.
Image credits: YouTube
According to YouTube, the new, improved video editor allows users to easily adjust the timing of each clip, move or delete clips to create a rough version, add music or timed text, preview shorts, and let the story tell you what they want. YouTube will be rolling out additional edit updates in the future.
The company notes that the improved video editor is the top request from shorts creators.
Tiktok is known for having robust editing tools, so it makes sense for YouTube to have creators access to the same tools. What's more, the launch of an improved video editor is important as Meta is said to be a few weeks away from releasing the “edit” app, which is said to be comparable to Bytedance's Capcut.
Image credits: YouTube
As for new AI stickers, creators can generate custom stickers using simple text prompts. In the example shared by YouTube, users can generate AI stickers for “strong plants with muscles.”
YouTube Shorts also brings out the ability for creators to add image stickers to their videos. For example, creators can share various costume inspiration options by uploading photos from their camera rolls and turning them into image stickers.
Image credits: YouTube
Additionally, creators will soon be able to select songs and automatically align the clips with the rhythm of the music. Before this, creators would have had to manually sync the clips to the song.
This feature appears to be similar to Capcut's “Beats” tool, automatically syncing music to the clip.
YouTube improves templates as users can pull photos from the gallery and use them in templates. The company will also be adding effects within the template. Given the popularity of its impact on Tiktok, it also makes sense for YouTube shorts to explore them.
The new features are expected to be rolled out in the coming months.