YouTube Shorts is a TikTok rival unveiled back in September and aimed at “anyone who wants to create short, catchy videos using nothing but their mobile phones.” Now it’s started rolling out in beta form across the US.
The initial beta included “multi-segment camera to string multiple video clips together, the ability to record with music, control speed settings, and more.” Launching the beta in the US also introduces some new features, “like the ability to add text to specific points in your video. You’ll also be able to sample audio from other Shorts so you can remix it into your own creation,” explained product lead Todd Sherman wrote in a blog announcement.
Additional tools—like using audio from YouTube videos and music partners will become available as YouTube expands the platform to more countries. Put your own creative spin on existing content and access a library of songs from more than 250 labels and publishers. However, creators can opt out if they don’t want their long-form recordings reworked into a Short.
“We know that creation is only one part of the Shorts experience,” Sherman said. “We also want to help people find Shorts to enjoy and help creators get discovered.” Look for a new row on the YouTube homepage highlighting Shorts, then swipe vertically from one video to the next (just like TikTok). A Shorts tab on mobile for one-click access is also being tested.
The very thing that may make Shorts stand out from the competition is its integration with YouTube. Hear a snippet of a song on Shorts, and you can easily find the full tune, watch the music video, and learn more about the artist directly on the site. “And soon it will work both ways,” according to the blog. “Loving music from Megan Thee Stallion? Tap the create button right from the video to make your own Short with that audio, or check out how others are using it on Shorts.”
The gradual rollout began Thursday and will be available to all US users over the next several weeks. “We know that it will take us time to get this right, and we’re just getting started,” Sherman said. YouTube is “actively working on” monetization options for the future.
