How to Add and Change Thumbnails on YouTube Shorts (Phone & PC Guide)

Introduction

Creating engaging thumbnails is crucial for grabbing attention on YouTube, even for Shorts. Although YouTube Shorts often rely on auto-generated thumbnails, content creators are increasingly looking for ways to add and change thumbnails on YouTube for better click-through rates. In this article, you’ll learn how to add or change thumbnails on YouTube Shorts, both on your phone and PC, and understand the recommended thumbnail size.

Section 1: Understanding YouTube Shorts Thumbnails

1. YouTube Shorts Thumbnail Size

To ensure your thumbnail looks great across all devices, use the following size:

  • Resolution: 1280 x 720 pixels
  • Format: JPG, GIF, or PNG
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9
  • File Size: Under 2MB

While Shorts are vertical (9:16), YouTube still displays thumbnails in a horizontal layout in some places, so a 16:9 thumbnail is ideal.

Section 2: Adding Thumbnails to YouTube Shorts

2. How to Add Thumbnail to YouTube Shorts After Upload

As of now, YouTube does not officially allow custom thumbnails for Shorts uploaded through the mobile app. However, if you upload your Short through YouTube Studio on a desktop, you can select a custom thumbnail.

Steps:

  1. Go to YouTube Studio
  2. Click Content on the left panel
  3. Select your uploaded Short
  4. Click Details > Upload thumbnail
  5. Choose your custom image and save

3. How to Add Thumbnail to YouTube Video

For standard (non-Shorts) videos:

  1. Go to YouTube Studio
  2. Click Content > Select video
  3. Under Thumbnail, click Upload thumbnail
  4. Save your changes

4. How to Add Pictures to YouTube Shorts on the Phone

While you can’t add a custom thumbnail directly through the mobile app for Shorts, you can:

  • Include the desired image at the start of the video (the first frame might become the thumbnail)
  • Use YouTube Stories or Posts to promote your Short with a custom image

Section 3: Changing Thumbnails on YouTube Shorts

5. How to Change Thumbnail on YouTube Shorts

Currently, you can only change a Shorts thumbnail if uploaded from the desktop. If already uploaded via mobile, the thumbnail is auto-selected, and you can’t edit it later.

Workaround: Re-upload the Short via desktop with a new thumbnail.

6. You Can Change the Thumbnail on the YouTube Mobile App

This applies only to standard videos. For Shorts, you can choose a thumbnail frame before uploading but not after.

7. How to Change YouTube Shorts Thumbnail on Phone

As mentioned, there’s no official way to change thumbnails for Shorts via the phone after uploading. However, before posting:

  • In the YouTube app, tap Next after editing the video
  • You can swipe through frames to select one
  • This will be the video preview, not a full custom thumbnail

8. How to Set Thumbnail for YouTube Shorts on PC

To set a thumbnail while uploading Shorts from a PC:

  1. Visit YouTube Studio
  2. Click Create > Upload Videos
  3. Choose your vertical video (less than 60 seconds)
  4. During upload, click Upload thumbnail
  5. Select your image and complete the upload

Conclusion

While YouTube Shorts currently offer limited control over thumbnails, you can still optimize how your content appears. Using desktop upload methods gives you more flexibility. Always ensure your thumbnail is clear, relevant, and engaging to attract more views. Stay updated with YouTube’s changes, as they may soon expand customization options for Shorts thumbnails.

Pro Tip: Use high-contrast images with readable text and expressive faces to boost thumbnail performance!

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