In its continued bid to compete with TikTok, YouTube has introduced a number of new features for its Shorts platform, such as tools that allow users to remix the majority of videos and incorporate voiceovers, since its launch. The video-sharing giant is now looking to enhance its palette of creator tools. The foremost addition is a feature called Collab, which provides users with the capability to record short videos in split-screen mode, in conjunction with other Shorts or regular clips.
To create a Collab video from a suitable Short or YouTube content, users simply have to select Remix and then opt for the new format. TikTok has long supported a split-screen effect, allowing the screen to be split into several frames. YouTube’s Collab feature is rolling out today and will progressively be available to users in the following weeks to compete with TikTok’s offering. The feature will first be accessible to iOS users, with Android users following suit.
Moreover, YouTube is launching a tool that empowers users to rapidly build upon and remix existing Shorts. By tapping the Remix button and selecting “use sound” in the Shorts player, the audio and effects from the viewed clip will automatically be brought forward. Users can then incorporate both sound and effects into their own post. In addition, a new recomposition tool, aimed at easing the transition from horizontal videos to vertical Shorts, will begin testing in the coming weeks. This tool provides creators with the flexibility to alter the layout, zoom level, and cropping of the portion they wish to use after selecting a video to remix. This facilitates the repurposing of older footage in a new format, with the option to utilize the new split-screen effect as well.
In addition to these creator-centric tools, YouTube is trialing a new mobile-first vertical live experience for viewers. This feature allows audiences to preview vertical live videos in the Shorts feed. Expanding the preview reveals a scrollable feed of additional live videos. YouTube anticipates that this could enhance visibility for creators and serve as a lucrative opportunity for those recently enrolled in its Partner Program. This mobile-centric experience will be gradually rolled out to an increasing number of viewers in the upcoming months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about YouTube Shorts update
What new features are being added to YouTube Shorts?
YouTube is enhancing its Shorts platform with various new features such as a split-screen mode, a tool for quickly remixing existing Shorts, and a recomposition tool designed to transform horizontal videos into vertical Shorts.
What is the purpose of YouTube’s new tool, Collab?
Collab is a new feature that allows users to record short videos in a split-screen format with other Shorts or regular clips, enhancing the interactivity and creativity of video creation on the platform.
Who will have early access to the new Collab feature on YouTube Shorts?
iOS users will be the first to gain access to the Collab feature, with Android users following shortly after.
What is the purpose of the new recomposition tool that YouTube is testing?
The recomposition tool aims to simplify the transformation of horizontal videos into vertical Shorts. It provides creators with the ability to adjust the layout, zoom, and crop of the segment they want to use after they’ve chosen a video to remix.
What is YouTube’s new mobile-first vertical live experience?
YouTube’s new mobile-first vertical live experience allows viewers to preview vertical live videos in the Shorts feed. On expanding the preview, viewers will find a scrollable feed of more live videos. This is expected to enhance discoverability for creators and is seen as a potential monetization opportunity for those in its Partner Program.
More about YouTube Shorts update
- YouTube’s official blog
- The Verge’s article on YouTube’s new features
- TechCrunch’s report on YouTube Shorts
- CNet’s coverage on YouTube vs TikTok
- YouTube’s Partner Program
5 comments
The mobile-first vertical live experience sounds interesting… let’s see how it turns out!
I can see a lot of potential with these new features. Looking forward to using ’em!
Collab looks sick!! cant wait to start using it on iOS.
finally, a way to easily turn horizontal vids to vertical, been waiting for this.
Wow! More tools for Shorts huh? YT really stepping up their game to compete with TikTok.