YouTube Shorts gets a big update, max length increased to 3 minutes

Short videos are becoming an increasingly popular form of entertainment. TikTok videos currently last up to 10 minutes. Now, YouTube looks to be the next platform to expand its definition of 'short video,' as the company will soon increase the length limit for Shorts videos from 1 minute to 3 minutes.

YouTube Shorts will be increased to 3 minutes in length

As announced on the YouTube blog, the company is preparing some big changes to YouTube Shorts. The main highlight is an increase in the length of videos users can upload:

Shorts videos are getting longer. Starting October 15, you can upload Shorts videos up to 3 minutes long. This has been a top-requested feature for creators, so we're excited to give you more flexibility to tell your story.

If you want to upload a 3-minute video, YouTube says the length increase only applies to videos 'with a square aspect ratio or higher.' Additionally, only videos uploaded on or after October 15 are eligible for the 3-minute increase, so hold off on uploading anything if you have a great idea for a longer video.

YouTube Shorts gets more useful updates

Increased length isn't the only thing YouTube has in store for short-form video fans. It looks like the video giant is taking a page from TikTok with a new template system. When you want to remix a YouTube Short, you'll see a new Use template button that lets you use the Short's audio and effects in your video, just like how templates work on TikTok.

YouTube Shorts will also have a Trends section on the mobile app, showing what types of content people are searching for. If you're stuck for content ideas, you can use the button at the top to quickly find new trends you can participate in.

YouTube is also allowing people to add video clips to Shorts videos. The company says this is a great way for people to remix or tweak existing content on the platform, but it could also be a useful tool for creators who want to cut a long video on their channel into shorter videos to share.

Jessica Tanner

Update 04 October 2024