One of TikTok’s defining attributes is its integrated video editing functionalities, both inside the app and via its partner app, CapCut. This user-friendliness has provided TikTok with a significant advantage in the short-form video arena. However, other platforms are now elevating their offerings. Instagram recently disclosed that it is working on a video editing application similar to CapCut, while YouTube is also taking steps to improve its short-form content capabilities.

YouTube has introduced a collection of new editing features for Shorts, its version of TikTok-style videos, designed to make the video production process easier directly within the app. As highlighted in a blog post released on Thursday, these new features will empower users to conduct intricate edits such as rearranging or removing clips, incorporating music and timed text, zooming in and out, and previewing videos prior to publishing.

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Alongside these enhancements, YouTube Shorts is rolling out templates that operate in a manner similar to those found on CapCut and Instagram Reels. These templates will enable users to automatically include images and will feature built-in credits to the original template creator.

“These are the inaugural steps towards further enhancements aimed at optimizing in-app editing for Shorts,” YouTube remarked in the announcement.

Upcoming updates are set to introduce functionalities like aligning video clips with the rhythm of a song, adding template effects, and featuring image and AI-generated stickers. Notably, the AI stickers can be created simply by replying to a text prompt, providing creators with even more opportunities to customize their content.