YouTube has announced several new features for YouTube Shorts. In a recent episode of “Release Notes,” Chief Product Officer Johanna Voolich discussed the future of Shorts and popular creators, sharing insights with YouTube Liaison Rene Ritchie on what users can expect.
Here’s What’s Coming Soon for YouTube Shorts
Auto Layout for Shorts: Soon available on Android, this tool automatically tracks and adjusts the main subject in your videos as you convert longer content into Shorts. It dynamically pans, zooms, and crops to ensure your Shorts look polished and engaging.
Text-to-Speech Narration: Creators can now have text on their Shorts narrated using Text-to-Speech technology. After recording a Short, simply add text and tap the “Add voice” icon to choose from four different voices.
“Add Yours” Sticker: This new feature allows creators to include an “Add yours” sticker in their Shorts, encouraging viewers to create and share related content. It’s being gradually rolled out over the next few weeks.
Minecraft Effects: In celebration of Minecraft’s 15th anniversary, YouTube has introduced two new effects: Minecraft Spring, which immerses viewers in the Minecraft world, and Minecraft Rush, a mini-game within the Shorts player where users compete to clear blocks as quickly as possible.
Stylized Captions: Coming soon, creators will be able to add auto-generated captions directly to their Shorts. These captions can be edited and customized with different fonts and colors, making Shorts more engaging and accessible, especially for viewers watching without sound.
Remixing Tools: Building on existing tools, YouTube now allows creators to remix a remix. Whether participating in a dance trend or musical chain, creators can put their unique spin on remixed content, fostering collaborative creativity.
Viewer Engagement and Growth
Voolich noted Shorts’ impressive 70 billion daily views, showing substantial growth. During the episode, she addressed creator questions:
- Jenny Hoyos asked about enhancing audience connections, with Voolich recommending responding to Shorts with more Shorts or going live.
- Ian Bogg queried Shorts’ ideal length; Voolich recognized the diverse preferences for shorter versus longer content, highlighting YouTube’s ongoing efforts to find the optimal balance.
Availability
Some features are already available but still being rolled out, while others are expected to launch soon.
Speaking about the new updates, YouTube’s Chief Product Officer Johanna Voolich stated:
YouTube Shorts is focused on removing barriers to creation, making it fun and easy to share your voice, whether you’re an experienced creator or just beginning. Our goal is to inspire creativity and provide tools that simplify the process on Shorts.