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Can I Change the Thumbnail on YouTube Shorts?

I've recently started creating Shorts on YouTube, and I'm really not happy with the thumbnails that YouTube automatically selects for my videos. I've read online that it seems impossible to change them after uploading. However, I've noticed that some creators have unique thumbnails that don't appear to be just frames from their videos. Is there a way to customize the thumbnail for my Shorts?
xharrisxharris

Answers (5)

One thing to keep in mind is that you can only select one frame from your Short as a thumbnail. This means you can’t upload a completely separate image as a thumbnail like you can with regular YouTube videos. So, it’s crucial to pick a frame that best represents your content.
scottdavidscottdavid
If you're having trouble finding the edit icon, you're not alone! Some users have reported difficulties with the interface. If you can’t see the option, make sure you’re using the latest version of the YouTube app, as updates can sometimes change features and accessibility.
whitneywestwhitneywest
The process can be a bit confusing, especially if you're switching between devices. If you're primarily using desktop to manage your content, remember that some features available on mobile are not present on the desktop version. Always check your mobile app for the most current editing options.
lindsayhalllindsayhall
Yes, you can change the thumbnail when you upload a Short, but there's a catch! You need to prepare your thumbnail beforehand. When you reach the last screen of the upload process on the YouTube app, there should be an edit icon that allows you to select a thumbnail. However, once your Short goes live, there's no way to change it afterward.
brian85brian85
It's interesting to note that you can only change the thumbnail through the YouTube mobile app, not the YouTube Studio. This seems a bit counterintuitive, especially for those of us who prefer using desktop. So if you want to customize your thumbnail, make sure to do it on the app before hitting publish.
jarnoldjarnold

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