YouTube has launched a free tool to help businesses market themselves online. Video Builder allows businesses to make short videos without any need for money or experience. Which is perfect timing given the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

Video Builder has been in the works for several months, and been tested by a small group of businesses. However, in light of the COVID-19 crisis, and the way it's impacting small and medium-sized businesses, YouTube has launched Video Builder publicly.

How YouTube's Video Builder Works

YouTube announced Video Builder in a post on The Keyword. The company explains that Video Builder means that "any business who needs a video can create one that helps connect with their customers and keep them informed." Even during a pandemic.

YouTube's Video Builder essentially animates static assets, including images, text, and logos. You can choose from a variety of layouts, customize the colors and fonts used, and add music from YouTube's Audio Library. All for free.

You'll end up with a short YouTube video either six seconds or 15 seconds in length. The video can then be uploaded to YouTube, and shared with customers in an email, embedded on a website, or used in an advertising campaign. Hence the ad-friendly lengths.

If you need more help using Video Builder, check out this Google Ads Help page.

How to Make Your Own YouTube Video

Video Builder is currently available in beta, with interested parties invited to apply for access. Just fill in the Video Builder beta form, which merely requires an email address connected to a Google account, with a Google Ads Customer ID entirely optional.

While Video Builder is likely to be a great tool for businesses, individuals stuck at home may also be keen to start their own YouTube channel. If that describes you, then be sure to check out our article detailing how to make a YouTube video.