YouTube Shorts Adds TikTok-Style Voiceovers and More: A Game-Changing Update for Content Creators

YouTube Shorts Adds TikTok-Style Voiceovers and More

In a bid to make its platform even more engaging, YouTube has unveiled some exciting new features for YouTube Shorts that are inspired by TikTok. One prominent feature is the addition of text-to-speech video narrations, similar to the robotic voiceovers that have become synonymous with TikTok. Here’s a simple breakdown of how you can use these new tools to enhance your YouTube Shorts.

Adding Voiceovers to Your Shorts

If you’ve been enthralled by the text-to-speech narrations on TikTok, you’ll be pleased to know that you can now add a similar touch to your YouTube Shorts. Here’s how:

• Create your text on YouTube Shorts.
• Tap the new “Add Voice” icon located in the upper-left corner of the screen.
• Choose from one of the four available voices to narrate your text.

The process is straightforward and adds a fun twist to your videos. While YouTube currently offers fewer voice options compared to TikTok, this feature is a great start for those looking to add vocal narration to their content.

Auto-Generated Captions

Another exciting update is the introduction of auto-generated captions. This can be especially helpful for those who need captions but don’t have the time or resources to add them manually. Now, you can automatically insert captions into your video without switching to another app like CapCut.

Much like the current manual text overlay feature on YouTube Shorts, these captions can also be customized in terms of font and color. This allows for more creative freedom and ensures that your captions fit your video’s style.

More Fun with Minecraft Effects

In celebration of Minecraft’s 15th anniversary, YouTube has introduced two new Minecraft effects for Shorts. These are:

• Minecraft Spring: Transports you right into the Minecraft world with a green screen game-themed background.
• Minecraft Rush: A new minigame where you have to tap to clear blocks as fast as you can, record your attempt, and see if you can beat your friends’ scores.

These effects can make your videos more interactive and engaging, especially for Minecraft fans.

“Add Yours” Sticker

Another fun addition is the “Add Yours” sticker. This feature allows creators to invite their audience to share their own related content. For example, if you’re showcasing a new trick you taught your dog, viewers can join in by using the same sticker to share their own dog tricks. This can foster a sense of community and spark a chain reaction of creative content.

Auto Layout for Shorts

Creating Shorts from longer videos has never been easier, thanks to the new Auto Layout tool. This feature, currently available on Android, automatically tracks the main subject in your video and pans, zooms, and crops to ensure your Shorts look their best. This means less manual editing and more time for creativity.

Remix a Remix

Remixing has always been a beloved feature on TikTok, and YouTube has embraced this with the ability to remix a remix. This is perfect for participating in dance trends or keeping a musical chain going. It allows you to add your own twist to already remixed content, making it even more enjoyable for both creators and viewers.

These updates are a testament to YouTube’s efforts to keep pace with TikTok’s popular features while adding its own unique spin. The new features aim to enhance creativity and make it easier for users to produce engaging content without requiring complex tools or extensive experience.

Release Notes: Inspiring creation with YouTube Shorts

Check out my full conversation with Johanna about Shorts below!