How to Use YouTube’s FREE AI Video Generator for Shorts

YouTube’s FREE AI Video Generator for Shorts, Dream Screen, is changing how creators make YouTube Shorts and vertical content. This tool lets anyone quickly create AI-generated video backgrounds for Shorts, and it’s free and now available in loads of countries. If you want to add next-level visuals to mobile videos, this step-by-step guide will get you sorted fast.

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Below is an AI-assisted summary of the key points and ideas covered in the video. For more detail, make sure to check out the full time stamped video above!

Accessing YouTube’s Dream Screen AI Video Generator

• Dream Screen is built right into the standard YouTube app.
• Right now, the tool is mobile-only, but it works the same on both iPhone and Android.
• To get started:
  • Open the YouTube app on your phone.
  • Tap the plus (+) button at the bottom to create a Short.
  • Tap the little arrow on the side of your screen then choose the green screen effect—Dream Screen is there.

Creating an AI-Generated Background

• Once the green screen option is selected, look for the AI button at the bottom of your screen.
• Hit it, and you’ll be prompted to describe your dream background. There are sample prompts if you need inspiration.
• Enter a prompt (like “a cat surfing on a massive wave”), choose a visual style or stick with the default.
• Tap “Create” and the AI will serve up four preview images in seconds.
• Pick your favourite, or tap “Try Again” for a fresh batch.

Turning Your AI Image Into Video

• Use the generated background as a still image or tap “Create Video” to animate it.
• The animation happens automatically—there’s no way to give detailed animation instructions, but the AI usually gets it right.
• Once happy, tap “Continue” to set the animated background in your Short.

Customizing and Recording Your YouTube Short

• After setting your background, you can:
  • Pinch, zoom, or move your on-screen subject anywhere in the frame.
  • Record yourself presenting, or let the AI animation be the focus.
  • If you don’t want to appear on camera, just adjust or shrink your video overlay.
• Add text, trim clips, or arrange segments with YouTube’s timeline editor.

Saving and Sharing Your AI-Generated Videos

• Dream Screen lets you save or share images before turning them into video:
  • Tap the three dots at the top right to save to your device or share.
  • When your video clip is ready (usually six seconds long), use it as part of your Short or as a stand-alone effect.

Pros and Cons of YouTube Dream Screen

Pros:

• Totally free—no subscriptions or watermarks
• Native in the YouTube app
• Lightning-fast AI generation (images and animations in seconds)
• No tech skills needed—just describe your idea
• Great for storytellers, marketers, and anyone after a business-friendly tool to polish Shorts

Cons:

• Mobile only (desktop version not yet available)
• Limited to generating and animating backgrounds (no detailed animation control)
• Only available in selected countries for now
• Basic animation options—not on par with advanced AI video editors

Quick Tips for Better Results

• Use detailed prompts for the best backgrounds (the more specific, the better).
• Test different styles to match your video’s vibe.
• Don’t like the result? Tap “Try Again” for something new.
• Combine multiple AI clips for more engaging Shorts.
• Remember, “done is better than perfect”—don’t overthink it!

Boost Your Creativity and Stand Out With AI-Generated Shorts

Dream Screen is a no-brainer for anyone keen to make Shorts pop with slick, AI-generated backgrounds—no cost, no headaches, no wasted time. With just a few taps, you can add personality, story, and a pro look to mobile clips. Have a go, play with prompts, and watch your content stand out in the Shorts feed.

Related Tools and Resources

• YouTube App (Android)
• YouTube App (iOS)
• See the latest AI Tools Justin’s using to create videos in a fraction of the time