YouTube revealed the updates at its annual “Made on YouTube” event, highlighting innovations for creators, artists, brands, and fans.
Since 2021, the company said it has paid over $100 billion to creators, artists, and media companies globally, underscoring the scale of the creator economy it helped build.
Making shorts smarter with AI
One of the biggest highlights is the integration of Google DeepMind’s Veo 3 Fast into YouTube Shorts. This technology allows users to generate video backgrounds and clips with sound for free, restyle videos, add props, and apply motion effects.
New AI-powered editing tools will also help creators streamline production. “Edit with AI” can turn raw footage into a first-draft video, while “Speech to Song” converts dialogue into soundtracks—features aimed at making Shorts more engaging and accessible for all users.
Streamlining the creative process
YouTube is transforming its backend tools as well. Inside “YouTube Studio,” creators will soon be able to:
The platform is also expanding its likeness detection tool, giving creators more control over AI-generated videos that use their facial likeness. The tool will roll out in open beta to all YouTube partner program creators.
Reinventing live, podcasts, and formats
YouTube noted that 30 percent of daily viewers watched live content in Q2 2025, signaling the importance of livestreaming. To build on this trend, the platform is launching its largest-ever upgrade to live streaming, offering creators new ways to reach audiences and monetize events.
Podcasters will also gain tools to clip and share Shorts from full episodes, while Google DeepMind’s Veo can now generate customizable videos from audio-only content, making podcasting more accessible for smaller creators.
Strengthening music and brand connections
On YouTube Music, fans will soon be able to pre-save albums, countdown to releases, and enjoy personalized fan experiences such as exclusive behind-the-scenes clips, thank-you messages, and limited-edition merch.
Meanwhile, YouTube is expanding its Shopping and brand deal features. Brands will be able to link directly to their websites from Shorts, and AI will make product tagging easier. The updates aim to simplify collaborations between creators and advertisers.
Looking ahead
As YouTube reflects on 20 years of global impact, the platform says it remains committed to empowering creators and fostering community. “We can’t wait to see what we create together in the next 20 years,” the company said. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
