YouTube rolls out new AI-powered tools for Shorts creators

New Delhi: YouTube has introduced a set of AI-driven creation tools designed to simplify and enhance content production for Shorts, according to a recent blog post by the platform.

The new features include a Photo to video converter, generative effects, and access to an AI playground for experimenting with creative outputs.

The Photo to video tool allows users to transform still images from their camera roll into animated Shorts. Users can select a photo and apply creative suggestions that add motion, such as animating landscapes, objects or group pictures. This feature is being rolled out across the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, with more regions expected to follow later in the year. It is free to use.

YouTube is also expanding its selection of visual effects, including new generative options that can modify selfies or sketches. The latest additions include effects that simulate swimming underwater or generate lookalike versions of the user. These can be accessed via the Shorts camera by tapping the Effects icon and browsing under the AI section.

Both the Photo to video and generative effects are powered by Google’s Veo 2 technology. YouTube said Veo 3 would be integrated into Shorts later this summer.

The platform has also launched AI playground, a dedicated hub for generative AI tools. It offers users the ability to generate videos, images, music and more, with guided prompts and example content. The feature is currently available in the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand and can be accessed by tapping the create button, followed by the sparkle icon.

YouTube noted that AI-generated content will include SynthID watermarks and clear labels to indicate that it was created using artificial intelligence.

According to the blog post, the new tools are designed to make the creative process more accessible, while preserving transparency about AI use in content creation.