YouTube has just launched new customization features for Shorts thumbnails on the iOS and Android, plus you can now make changes post-upload!

Despite the ability to upload custom thumbnail images on TikTok, and Instagram and Facebook for Reels, YouTube has remained reluctant in letting creators upload Shorts thumbnails. YouTube’s argument against personalized Shorts thumbnails is that the majority of Shorts viewing is done in the Shorts feed, where videos are served and play automatically, therefore displaying no thumbnail. The places where Shorts thumbnails are shown include the Home feed, subscriptions, channel pages, search, and hashtag and audio pivot pages.

With the latest update, YouTube are enabling more aesthetic control, without going full custom thumbnail, however this could still be on the horizon. The announcement video below from YouTube’s Creator Insider channel says “we’re exploring bringing additional functionality to Shorts thumbnails next year”.

How to customize a YouTube Shorts thumbnail

The latest update lets creators choose a frame, then add text, filters and emoji to the thumbnail.

In addition to the ability to further customize YouTube Shorts thumbnails, creators can now make thumbnail adjustments to existing Shorts, including choosing a frame, and adding text and filters.

These features are available on iOS and Android. Be sure to update your app before testing.

  1. Open the YouTube app and tap the plus icon in the bottom menu bar
  2. Record or upload a Short
  3. On the Add details page, tap the pencil icon in the top left corner
  4. Slide the bar at the bottom to pick a frame, then simply tap Text or Filters
  5. While typing, you’ll see options to adjust the size, alignment, outline, font and color
  6. Move the text to your desired location, and pinch to adjust the size and rotation
  7. Tap Filters to see previews along the bottom of what each one looks like, or simply slide to try each one out
  8. Once you’re happy, tap the checkmark to save changes
  9. Add a caption, alter the settings and tap Upload Short once you’re ready to go live

Artists can upload their music to YouTube Shorts for free and start generating royalties on the short-form platform.