TechPression

Tag: YouTube

  • From Text to Motion: YouTube Shorts revamps AI video creation with Veo 2

    From Text to Motion: YouTube Shorts revamps AI video creation with Veo 2

    Google DeepMind‘s most recent AI video-generating model, Veo 2, was included in YouTube’s Shorts platform on February 13, 2025.

    YouTube has made a notable step forward for content creators, offering creators more tools to express their creativity with AI support and transforming short-form video content production.

    With Veo 2, YouTube Shorts provides a venue where producers may innovate with AI-generated visuals rather than only a place for brief video samples.

    Read also: DeepSeek under threat from US-originated cyber attacks

    What is Veo 2?

    Veo 2 is an advanced AI model developed by Google DeepMind, designed to generate high-quality video content from textual descriptions. This technology brings a new dimension to YouTube Shorts by allowing creators to craft videos with realistic motion, detailed physics, and cinematic control, all at resolutions up to 4K. It stands out with features like digital watermarking, ensuring responsible AI usage. Veo 2 is poised to be a game-changer for YouTube creators looking to push the boundaries of video content.

    Impact of Veo 2 on YouTube Shorts

    The integration of Veo 2 into YouTube Shorts signifies a significant upgrade for the platform known for its bite-sized video format. Creators can now use this tool to generate standalone video clips or dynamic backgrounds, enhancing their storytelling capabilities. Dream Screen, initially introduced for background generation, now evolves with Veo 2 to offer complete video clip creation, making YouTube Shorts a more versatile platform for creators.

    In the YouTube Shorts editor, creators can engage with Veo 2 through the Dream Screen feature. By entering a text prompt, they can generate various images or video clips, selecting the most suitable one for their content. This functionality allows creators to add creative visual elements or fill narrative gaps within their shorts. The generated content is watermarked with DeepMind’s SynthID technology, promoting transparency in AI-generated content on YouTube.

    Reada also: e& and IBM introduce innovative AI governance platform

    Creative and economic implications of Veo 2 to YouTube Shorts

    The addition of Veo 2 to YouTube Shorts democratises video production, lowering the barriers to entry into content creation. This could increase the quantity and quality of videos on YouTube as creators explore new visual storytelling techniques. However, it also poses questions about content authenticity and the uniqueness of videos in an AI-saturated environment. YouTube’s CEO, Neal Mohan, has positioned Veo 2 as an enhancement to human creativity, not a replacement, aiming to expand the creative possibilities of YouTube creators.

    While Veo 2 opens up new avenues for creativity on YouTube Shorts, it also presents challenges. The authenticity of content becomes a focal point, as there is a need to distinguish AI-generated from human-made videos. YouTube’s watermarking helps, but the issue of authenticity remains complex. There’s also the potential for content saturation, where creators struggle to stand out without strategic engagement with YouTube’s algorithms. Ethical use of Veo 2 is another critical aspect, ensuring that this technology complements rather than undermines human creativity.

    The integration of Veo 2 into YouTube Shorts marks a pivotal moment in digital content creation, offering tools that could redefine video production norms. As creators adapt to these new capabilities, the landscape of YouTube might surge in high-quality, visually rich content. Yet, YouTube will need to navigate the challenges of maintaining creator authenticity and managing the content ecosystem to ensure that innovation benefits all stakeholders within the YouTube community.

  • YouTube expands ‘Communities’ feature to rival Discord for creator-fan engagement

    YouTube expands ‘Communities’ feature to rival Discord for creator-fan engagement

    YouTube is expanding its Communities feature, offering more creators a dedicated space to engage directly with fans—without relying on platforms like Discord.

    First introduced at the Made for YouTube event in September 2024, this mobile-only feature is now rolling out to a wider audience. The expansion aims to enhance creator-fan interactions by providing a central hub for discussions, updates, and fan-generated content. 

    Read also: Netflix announces June 27th premiere for Squid Game’s final season

    YouTube’s Communities

    YouTube’s Communities feature creates an interactive space where both creators and viewers can initiate discussions, share updates, and post content. Unlike traditional YouTube Posts, which are mostly one-way updates, Communities enable two-way engagement, fostering deeper connections among fans.

    Creators can manage these interactions using the Community Hub within the YouTube Studio app, consolidating channel activity and even suggesting responses to fan comments. During the initial testing phase, YouTube has received positive feedback from creators, prompting a broader rollout.

    YouTube ‘Community’ tab becomes ‘Posts’ to avoid confusion

    To avoid confusion between the new Communities feature and the existing Community tab, YouTube is rebranding the Community tab as ‘Posts’. While the functionality remains unchanged, the new name distinguishes standard updates and announcements from the more interactive Communities space.

    Creators can continue using Posts for quick updates, while Communities will act as a more immersive, discussion-driven environment for fans.

    Read also: Tems wins first solo Grammy award for Best African Music Performance

    Exclusive, invite-only access for now

    For now, access to Communities is by invitation only. Selected creators will receive an email notification and a banner alert on their channel pages within the YouTube app. Invited users will be prompted to visit their new Community space and choose whether to activate the feature.

    This expansion signals YouTube’s intent to rival Discord, offering creators a built-in fan community without needing external platforms. As YouTube continues refining Communities, it may eventually open access to more creators, making it a powerful tool for engagement.

  • Spotify unveils Partner Program for creators to monetise content

    Spotify unveils Partner Program for creators to monetise content

    Spotify has officially launched its Partner Program today. The program aims to empower creators in the U.S., UK, Canada and Australia.

    This initiative allows creators to earn revenue based on engagement from paid subscribers, similar to YouTube‘s model.

    With over 640 million users and more than 250 million subscribers, Spotify aims to enhance its platform for creators while providing an enriched experience for users.

    Read also: Spotify users alarmed as pornographic content appear in search results

    Transforming monetisation for creators

    The Partner Program introduces a dual-revenue model, offering audience-driven payouts from video engagement and ad monetisation on Spotify Free.

    This flexibility enables creators to navigate industry changes better and maintain a steady income. Since its announcement on November 13, 2024, nearly 65 percent of eligible shows have enrolled, indicating strong interest among creators.

    Jim Harold of The Paranormal Podcast remarked, “The Partner Program allows us to expand into long-form video, giving our loyal audio listeners an enriched experience while attracting new viewers.”

    Zach Misischia of The Makeshift Podcast echoes this sentiment: “This program lets us monetise effectively without disrupting our listeners’ experience.”

    Read also: Spotify Premium prices rise in Kenya

    Enhancing user experience

    Spotify’s new features include Podcast Clips and short videos designed to promote shows and facilitate discovery.

    These clips have proven to be 33 per cent more effective than traditional previews in converting casual browsers into engaged listeners. With the absence of dynamic ads for Premium users during video playback, the viewing experience is significantly improved.

    Spotify’s founder, Daniel Ek, has emphasised the company’s commitment to supporting creators and enhancing user engagement.

    The Partner Program represents a strategic move to solidify Spotify’s position as a leader in the podcasting space while fostering a sustainable ecosystem for creators.

    As Spotify continues to innovate and expand its offerings, the Partner Program stands out as a promising avenue for creators looking to monetise their content effectively.

  • YouTube simplifies content discovery with ‘Play Something’ button

    YouTube simplifies content discovery with ‘Play Something’ button

    YouTube is set to enhance user experience on its mobile app by introducing a new feature called “Play Something.” This feature, which aims to streamline video discovery by allowing users to play suggested content with a tap, was announced on Friday.

    A new way to discover content

    Read also: YouTube expands AI auto-dubbing feature to knowledge-sharing creators

    On Android devices, the “Play Something” button will appear as a floating action button (FAB) in the lower right corner of the YouTube app interface. When tapped, it plays a video tailored to the user’s viewing preferences, which may include both YouTube Shorts and regular videos.

    This feature is designed to reduce users’ time scrolling through endless options, making it easier to find engaging content quickly.

    When the app is opened, the “Play Something” button replaces the minimized video player. If a user has an active minimized player, the button becomes inaccessible.

    This design choice ensures that users can focus on enjoying their selected video without distractions.

    The video player will display in portrait orientation. On the right side of the screen, buttons for liking, disliking, commenting, and sharing will be located, similar to the layout used for YouTube Shorts.

    Read also: YouTube on your TV? Airtel Nigeria teams up with Google to convert analogue TVs into smart screens

    Background and development

    The “Play Something” feature concept has been in development for over a year. Its first public appearance was noted in May 2023 when a Reddit user spotted it.

    Since then, YouTube has refined the functionality, leading to its current iteration in version 19.50 of the Android app. The feature’s introduction aligns with YouTube’s ongoing efforts to enhance user engagement by simplifying how viewers discover new videos.

    YouTube’s founder, Steve Chen, and co-founders Chad Hurley and Jawed Karim revolutionized how people consume video content online when they launched the platform in 2005.

    Their vision of making video sharing accessible has evolved into a multi-faceted service that continues to innovate with features like “Play Something.” This new addition reflects YouTube’s commitment to adapting to user needs and preferences in an increasingly competitive streaming environment.

    As users navigate countless videos daily, features like “Play Something” are essential for maintaining engagement and satisfaction. By offering personalized recommendations at the touch of a button, YouTube aims to recreate an old-school discovery experience reminiscent of earlier internet browsing days—where users could stumble upon unexpected gems rather than be overwhelmed by choices.

    The “Play Something” feature is being tested and unavailable to all users. However, those with access report that it significantly enhances their viewing experience by providing instant access to the content they will likely enjoy based on their previous interactions with the platform.

    This innovative approach not only keeps viewers engaged but also reinforces YouTube’s position as a leader in digital video.

  • How Agentic AI is redefining CRM, workflow automation at Creation AI

    How Agentic AI is redefining CRM, workflow automation at Creation AI

    In the fast-evolving landscape of enterprise software, AI is not just an add-on but the core of new platforms. During a recent interview on YouTube with Creation AI’s CEO, Katherine Kostevera, the conversation delved into how Creation is challenging established giants like Salesforce and ServiceNow in Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and workflow automation through its agentic AI approach.

    Read also: The role of AI in advancing global innovation

    Agentic AI as a new paradigm in enterprise software

    The CEO expressed her unparalleled excitement about the current state of technology, particularly highlighting how Creation AI is poised to redefine CRM and no-code platforms within the next few years. 

    Unlike traditional models where AI might be an additional feature, Creation AI integrates AI fundamentally into its platform, making it inherently AI-native. This approach means users don’t pay extra for AI functionalities; instead, they are part of the core offering, setting Creation apart from competitors who might charge for AI modules separately.

    The dual role of AI at Creation AI

    Creation AI leverages AI in two primary ways: first, in no-code development, where AI helps build applications directly on the platform; secondly, by enhancing end-user functionalities across various business processes like marketing, sales, and service automation. This dual functionality provides a significant edge, as it facilitates the creation of applications and optimises their use in real-world scenarios.

    When asked about market positioning, especially with competitors now offering AI-driven solutions, the CEO pointed out that Creation’s strategy involves not just offering AI but embedding it as a central component of user interaction. The platform is designed so that users interact with AI through natural language, which is seen as the future of programming. This approach aims to make technology more accessible, reduce the learning curve, and enhance adoption.

    Read also: Try Grok-2: Elon Musk’s latest AI model, free for X users

    Addressing adoption challenges of Agentic AI

    Adoption has been a focal point, with some enterprises experiencing a plateau in tool usage due to concerns over perceived laziness or lack of proper training. Creation AI tackles this by continuously expanding its skill library, ensuring users can handle various CRM tasks without needing additional interfaces or skills. Katherine Kostevera noted that this strategy speeds adoption and keeps users engaged with the platform’s evolving capabilities.

    According to Katherine, the vision for 2025 is a seamless interface where users interact with all CRM needs through one platform using natural language. This would mean a significant shift from current user experiences to a more intuitive, AI-assisted interaction, potentially setting a new standard for how software is used in businesses.

    The conversation concluded by acknowledging the competitive pricing strategies in the market. Creation AI’s approach of not charging extra for AI features is critical in fostering faster adoption, contrasting with competitors who might require additional investments for AI enhancements. This strategy could be a pivotal reason behind differing adoption rates across the industry.

    The YouTube video can be accessed here for those interested in exploring the discussion.

  • YouTube expands AI auto-dubbing feature to knowledge-sharing creators

    YouTube expands AI auto-dubbing feature to knowledge-sharing creators

    YouTube officially rolled out its AI-powered auto-dubbing feature to a broader audience on December 10, 2024. Initially tested with select creators after its introduction at Vidcon last year, this tool is now available to hundreds of thousands of channels focusing on knowledge-based content, such as cooking tutorials and DIY projects.

    Read also: YouTube on your TV? Airtel Nigeria teams up with Google to convert analogue TVs into smart screens

    How YouTube enhances accessibility with auto-dubbing

    The feature is designed to make content accessible to global audiences by automatically generating audio tracks in multiple languages. Upon uploading a video, creators can benefit from automatic language detection and translation. Supported languages currently include English, French, German, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, and Spanish, with more to be added in the future.

    The technology behind YouTube’s new tool

    YouTube’s auto-dubbing leverages Google’s Gemini AI technology, known for its ability to mimic human speech. While this innovation bridges language barriers, the feature remains in its infant stages, with occasional translation or dubbed voice representation inaccuracies. YouTube emphasises that creator feedback is vital for improving the tool’s performance.

    Read also: YouTube bolsters deepfake detection tools

    In addition to refining the auto-dubbing tool, YouTube plans to introduce an “Expressive Speech” update. This enhancement aims to replicate the creator’s tone, emotions, and even the ambience of their surroundings, offering a more immersive experience for viewers.

    By expanding this feature, YouTube reinforces its commitment to making its content library inclusive and accessible. While it currently caters to knowledge-focused creators, the company has plans to extend the tool’s availability across other content categories, further cementing its global reach.

  • YouTube on your TV? Airtel Nigeria teams up with Google to convert analogue TVs into smart screens

    YouTube on your TV? Airtel Nigeria teams up with Google to convert analogue TVs into smart screens

    Airtel Nigeria has significantly enhanced home entertainment for Nigerians by partnering with Google to bring YouTube to every television set in the country. This groundbreaking announcement was made on Monday during a signing ceremony at Airtel’s headquarters in Lagos. 

    The collaboration aims to bridge the digital divide and provide affordable access to quality entertainment for all Nigerians, regardless of whether they own smart TVs or older analogue models.

    Read also: Airtel Money introduces ‘Paybill Rudishiwa’ to give back 50% transaction fees as airtime

    Transforming home entertainment

    The partnership centres around the Airtel Smart Router, a dual-purpose device that combines internet connectivity with the capability to transform traditional TVs into smart ones. 

    This integration allows users to access YouTube directly from their TVs, providing a seamless streaming experience. This means families can enjoy a wide range of content, including movies, sports, music, and educational videos, all from the comfort of their living rooms.

    Femi Oshinlaja, Chief Commercial Officer of Airtel Nigeria, emphasised the importance of this initiative: “At Airtel, our goal to bridge the digital gap includes the provision of affordable entertainment content. 

    Through this partnership with Google, we continue revolutionising the entertainment space. The Airtel Smart Router offers a complete experience, delivering Internet services and easy access to world-class entertainment through YouTube. 

    Femi Adeniran, Director of Corporate Communications and CSR at Airtel, echoed this sentiment, noting that this integration simplifies how customers consume digital content at home.

    The Airtel Smart Router retails for N25,000 and has a 30-day unlimited data plan. This pricing strategy aims to make it accessible for families across Nigeria. 

    The device features an optimised YouTube app and a dedicated button on its remote control for easy navigation. This innovation is not just about technology; it’s about making quality entertainment available to everyone.

    Read also: YouTube bolsters deepfake detection tools

    A step towards digital inclusion

    Google’s involvement in this partnership highlights its commitment to making digital content accessible across Africa. 

    Olumide Balogun, West Africa Director at Google, stated: “YouTube has always been about connecting people with the content they love… With this partnership, we’re making it easier for more Nigerians to access their favourite videos right from their TVs”.

    This initiative enhances entertainment options and aims to empower Nigerian audiences by providing them with diverse content that can inform and inspire.

    Mahesh Bhalerao, Director of EMEA Product Partnerships at YouTube, added, “YouTube is the stage where culture comes to life… This collaboration with Airtel underscores our commitment to bringing high-quality, on-demand content to more homes while empowering Nigerian audiences.”

    This partnership is seen as a vital step towards creating a digitally inclusive Africa where everyone can benefit from the wealth of online knowledge and entertainment.

  • Cristiano Ronaldo and MrBeast YouTube collaboration: I meet MrBeast to break the internet

    Cristiano Ronaldo and MrBeast YouTube collaboration: I meet MrBeast to break the internet

    Cristiano Ronaldo and MrBeast, two titans in their respective fields of sports and digital entertainment, have teamed up for a YouTube collaboration that promises to “break the internet.”

    Ronaldo confirmed the news with a teaser for the video titled “I Meet MrBeast To Break The Internet,” which premiered on November 21.

    Read also: Jadrolita: The Nigerian content creator blending AI and entertainment

    A new era for Cristiano Ronaldo’s YouTube channel

    Since launching his channel “UR Cristiano” in August 2024, Ronaldo has quickly garnered over 67 million subscribers. The recent collaboration with MrBeast blends humour and insightful discussions about Ronaldo’s experiences in the digital content world. In the video, they brainstormed potential future content ideas, including behind-the-scenes footage of training sessions and exclusive match-day vlogs.

    Ronaldo’s channel focuses on providing fans with a glimpse into his life beyond football, from personal moments with family to insights into his training regimen.

    MrBeast, who boasts over 331 million subscribers, expressed amazement at Ronaldo’s rapid growth on YouTube. “Honestly, I thought you were gonna do 20-30 million in the first month,” MrBeast remarked. “When you did 60, I was like, ‘Oh my gosh.’ The most ever gained before in a month was 20 million, and that was us.”

    Ronaldo’s foray into YouTube is part of a broader trend among athletes leveraging social media to connect with fans. In September, he became the first to surpass 1 billion followers across all his social media accounts, solidifying his status as a global icon.

    I meet MrBeast to break the internet

    The video “I Meet MrBeast To Break The Internet” features a lighthearted conversation about their respective journeys and careers. MrBeast hinted that their upcoming joint project, set to premiere on November 30, would be his “best YouTube video” yet. He encouraged Ronaldo to consider diverse content ideas that could further engage audiences, such as collaborating with other footballers and creating reaction videos to his biggest plays.

    Despite the competitive nature of YouTube subscriptions, Ronaldo stated he has no intention of surpassing MrBeast’s subscriber count. “The record belongs to you,” he acknowledged during their discussion.

    Read also: Scarlett Johansson joins the Jurassic Fold

    Future collaborations and engagements

    In a friendly gesture, Ronaldo invited MrBeast to watch him play for Al Nassr against their arch-rivals Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, to which MrBeast enthusiastically accepted. This invitation highlights their camaraderie and indicates potential future collaborations that could further blend sports with digital content creation.

    As both icons prepare for their next video release later this month, fans eagerly anticipate how this partnership will evolve. The synergy between Ronaldo’s athletic prowess and MrBeast’s creative genius will likely produce compelling content that resonates with millions worldwide.

    The collaboration between Cristiano Ronaldo and MrBeast is more than just a viral video; it represents a significant shift in how athletes engage with their audiences through digital platforms. As both icons navigate this new terrain together, viewers can expect exciting content that uniquely merges sports and entertainment. 

  • South Africa-based Fintr teaches finance through interactive gaming

    South Africa-based Fintr teaches finance through interactive gaming

    South African firm Fintr uses gamification to educate youngsters about money management. Fintr promises to make money learning fun with superhero-themed stories, practical financial exercises, and competitive incentive systems. The platform instills excellent financial habits in children to prepare them for financial success.

    Fintr: Bridging the financial education gap

    In 2021, Elijah Djan and Danei Rall created Findamentals, Fintr’s parent firm. Djan and Rall taught money management in their undergraduate years because their families rarely discussed financial literacy.

    Read also: Happy Pay secures R32 million pre-seed funding to boost growth in South Africa’s BNPL sector

    Djan recalled, “Navigating the complexities of money management became a self-taught journey during our university years. Last year, we met a lecturer who discussed her financial path. After hearing the lecturer’s words, we realised we shared a love for inspiring people with the knowledge we had gathered.

    Findamentals was established to help people avoid their childhood problems. Through Fintr, the organisation helps young people make informed financial decisions early in life, securing their financial prospects.

    Game On: revolutionising education with gamification

    Djan and Rall realised that workshops, books, and long web videos bore audiences. To remedy this, they used gamification—game-like aspects to engage and learn.

    Djan stated, “Learning about money is often dull and uninspiring, with most resources limited to in-person workshops, books, or lengthy YouTube videos. We propose a solution that teaches knowledge and changes behaviour.”

    He added that several academic studies have shown that game-based learning can promote enduring change. Fintr aims to raise financially literate kids by making education engaging and interactive. Games help the startup make learning more fun and effective.

    Since 2023, approximately 1,000 people have played Fintr’s digital games. The platform continues to grow with FinMaster, a modern-day Monopoly board game. The game teaches financial concepts through gameplay and is preordered.

    Read also: Xero to purchase South African cloud-based firm Syft for $70 million

    The impact of Ed-Tech on financial literacy education

    Fintr, a South African company, is integrating its Fintr4Schools digital solution and FinMaster board game into Grade 7 EMS. The goal is to make financial literacy more practical and engaging for pupils.

     Through its Pathways initiative, Fintr has received money from the World Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, and E Squared. Injini’s ed-tech accelerator accepted 12 startups, including the company.

    Fintr makes money by selling annual school licenses for its digital solution and FinMaster board games online. The business is pursuing partnerships to produce specialised games for banks and financial organisations.

    Financial literacy is difficult to prove, but Fintr wants to change how young people learn about money. The founders believe their method can change the world by equipping young people with financial knowledge and tools.

  • YouTube bolsters deepfake detection tools

    YouTube bolsters deepfake detection tools

    As technology continues to evolve, so does how people can manipulate media. Deepfakes, particularly those altering faces and voices, have become a significant concern due to their potential for misinformation.

    In response, YouTube is rolling out tools designed to detect these advanced fabrications and protect creators and viewers from the harmful effects of such manipulations.

    Read also: X offers new TV app for seamless video watching

    Understanding deepfakes

    Deepfakes use artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to create realistic images, videos, or audio that appear authentic but are entirely fabricated. While some deepfakes are harmless or used for entertainment, others can be misleading, damaging reputations, or spreading false information.

    YouTube’s fight against deepfakes

    To counter this, YouTube is already preparing itself for the incrementing problem by implementing new artificial intelligence, which means recognising face and voice deepfakes.

    Uploaded videos will be analysed for manipulations to identify videos which have incorporated synthetic media into them. The goal here is to give creators and viewers more choices and options and vouch for the content posted on the platform. 

    The tools will employ complex AI computing methods to read the videos and the companion audio streaming, detecting synonyms between the actors’ facial expressions, lip movements, and vocalisations.

    Read also: What Can Players Expect from Romance and Intrigue in Dragon Age?

    If the system identifies a deep fake, YouTube will inform the video’s owner and block the ad revenues that the video can generate. This means this technology should be strong enough to counter the constant upgradation of the sophistication of deep fake videos. 

    For the creators, such tools could act as protection, guaranteeing that one’s image and work would not be used in creating dangerous deepfakes. Conversely, the audience will gain the advantage of being confident that the videos they watch are not fake news. 

    As much as the detection tools are prestigious achievements for YouTube platforms, the struggle against fake media isn’t over. As deepfakes become more advanced, it is essential to note that ongoing work, constant innovation, and improvement of the detection methods will be critical. 

    YouTube’s efforts to tackle the challenge of deepfakes reflect a broader trend in tech companies taking responsibility for the integrity of the content on their platforms. By introducing these tools, YouTube is leading the charge in ensuring a safer and more authentic online experience.