YouTube Shorts is incorporating a new artificial intelligence tool for converting images into videos, along with additional artificial intelligence effects.

YouTube has recently introduced new generative AI features for Shorts creators. These features include an image-to-video AI tool and new AI effects. The image to video feature allows users to transform a picture from their camera roll into a six-second video, with relevant suggestions provided based on the uploaded photo. This feature can be used to add movement to landscape photos, animate everyday pictures, or bring group photos to life. For example, a static image of a pedestrian signal can be turned into a short video that zooms into a dancing version of the walking man symbol.

The new tool, powered by Google’s Veo 2 AI model for video generation, is being rolled out in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand initially, with plans for expansion to other regions later this year. Additionally, AI effects have been introduced for creators to transform their doodles into artistic images and create videos with underwater themes, twinning effects, and more. These effects can be accessed through the “Effects” icon in the Shorts camera by tapping on “AI” to browse through generative effects.

Furthermore, YouTube CEO Neal Mohan announced at Cannes Lions 2025 that Google’s Veo 3 video generator, capable of generating both video and audio, will be integrated into Shorts in the upcoming summer. Shorts are currently averaging over 200 billion daily views. YouTube also launched AI Playground as a hub for generative AI creation tools, inspirational examples, prefilled prompts, and more. Creators can access AI Playground by tapping the Create button and then the sparkle icon in the top right corner, available for users in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.