YouTube now lets creators add custom thumbnails to Shorts, giving them more control over how their videos look in feeds. The update also brings AI tools that suggest thumbnail styles to make the process faster and easier.
Creators can upload thumbnails in 3840×2160 resolution, 16:9 aspect ratio, and JPG/PNG/GIF formats. On desktop, Shorts thumbnails can be chosen from three suggested frames, while the mobile app allows selecting any frame.
For longer videos, the new Ask Studio AI tool can generate thumbnails based on transcripts and video content, with options to adjust colors, layouts, and styles.
The AI tool helps creators save time by offering ready-made designs. Thumbnails must comply with the Community Guidelines, and violations could result in removal or account penalties. Misidentified creators can update their disclosure status, but labels remain if the video was made using YouTube’s own AI tools.
Also Read: YouTube now auto-labels AI-generated videos
YouTube said that these updates will not affect monetization or recommendations. The rollout starts with creators in the YouTube Partner Program and will expand to more users soon.
