YouTube is adding new tools to YouTube Shorts to make short video creation easier and more fun. These new tools include a photo-to-video feature, AI-powered effects, and a new AI Playground that helps creators explore more creative options.
Turn Photos into Videos
YouTube has added a photo-to-video tool to Shorts. This feature was already available in Google Photos. The photo-to-video tool lets creators turn still images into short video clips. You can pick any photo from your phone, apply creative effects, and the tool will add motion and animation.
It works well with landscape shots, group photos, or even simple everyday pictures. It adds a smooth movement to bring them to life.
Generative Effects with Veo 2
YouTube Shorts now supports generative effects built using Veo 2, Google’s video AI model. These effects can turn simple doodles into stylized visuals or add AI-generated elements to your selfies.
Some fun effects include an underwater look or filters that make people look like their siblings. You can try them by tapping the ✨ Effects icon in the Shorts camera and checking the AI section.
AI Playground Now Available
YouTube is also introducing an AI Playground – a new section where creators can play around with different AI tools. It offers video, image, and music generation tools, along with ready-to-use prompts and example content to help creators get started.
You can find the AI Playground by tapping the Create button, then the sparkle icon at the top-right corner.
YouTube has confirmed that all AI-generated content will include SynthID watermarks and clear labels. This makes it easy for viewers to know when AI was used in creating the content.
Availability
- Photo-to-Video: This feature is rolling out this week in the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. More regions will get it later this year.
- Generative Effects: It is coming to more creators globally in the next few weeks. These are powered by Veo 2, but Veo 3 is expected soon.
- AI Playground: Now available in the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
These new tools show that YouTube is serious about helping creators make better content with the power of AI.
