Accessing the Feature
To utilize this exciting feature, users need to enter the Shorts camera. They simply tap the “green screen” icon and then select “Dream Screen.” From there, they can input a prompt like “candy landscape” or “magical forest with a stream.” After that, they can choose an animation style and tap “Create.” The Dream Screen tool will then generate a series of video backgrounds from which users can make their selection. Once a background is chosen, they can record a video with it serving as the backdrop.Versatile Uses
YouTube emphasizes that this new feature can be employed in various ways. For instance, it allows users to place themselves in the setting of their favorite book or create an animated opening for their Short. It opens up a world of creative possibilities.Future Plans
In the coming days, YouTube intends to provide creators with the ability to generate six-second-long stand-alone video clips for Shorts through Dream Screen. This will further enhance the creative potential for Shorts creators.Comparison with TikTok
It's important to note that YouTube is giving Shorts creators access to a feature that is not yet available on TikTok, the leading short-form video platform. While TikTok allows creators to generate AI-powered background images, it currently does not offer the option to create video backgrounds. This gives YouTube Shorts an edge in the creative arena.The new feature is currently available in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, allowing creators in these regions to start exploring and leveraging this innovative tool right away.Unlock the Power of Customized Lists on Bluesky
Starter Packs versus Lists
Let's take a moment to understand the distinction between Starter Packs and Bluesky Lists. A Starter Pack is designed as a quick means to follow a group of users en masse. Any Bluesky user can create a Starter Pack of individuals they believe others should follow and share it on their feed or elsewhere. These packs are also accessible in a tab on users' Bluesky profiles.
For instance, there are Starter Packs focused on various domains such as politics, journalists, developers, technologists, academia, sports, AI, health, and different fan groups. The Bluesky Directory, a third-party site, keeps track of the increasing number of available Starter Packs. With a simple click, you can follow everyone in a Starter Pack or selectively choose specific individuals.
Turn a Starter Pack into a List
Although both types of lists are valuable, Bluesky currently lacks a key feature that would enable users to convert a shared Starter Pack into a list accessible from their Bluesky account. This is where the Pack2List web app by developer Seth Miller comes into play. The tool is available on GitHub and a basic PHP website, along with other useful tools for list management.
To use the service, you need to enter your Bluesky credentials, including your username and an app password generated from Bluesky's security settings. This ensures the security of your account. Once logged in, you simply paste the URL of the Starter Pack you want to convert into a list and select whether it's for following ("Content") or blocking people ("Moderation"). After clicking the "Submit" button, the Starter Pack is instantly added as a list on your Bluesky account. You also have the option to merge the Starter Pack with an existing list on your account if preferred.
Benefits of Using Pack2List
Using the Pack2List app offers several advantages. It saves users the time and effort of manually creating lists from scratch. By leveraging the curation work of other Bluesky users, you can quickly build a customized list that aligns with your interests. This allows for a more personalized and efficient experience on the platform.
Moreover, it provides flexibility. You can choose to follow or block specific users based on the Starter Pack you convert. This gives you greater control over the content you see on your Bluesky feed and helps you curate a more engaging and relevant social network.
Bluesky's User-Friendly Experience
One of the great things about Bluesky's app is its user-friendly nature. You don't need to be tech-savvy to create an account, follow others, and interact with posts on your timeline. It resembles the familiar interface of old Twitter, now known as X under Elon Musk. However, for those who want to explore Bluesky's more advanced features, the presence of a vibrant developer community building tools, services, and apps is a valuable asset.
These tools enhance the functionality of Bluesky and allow users to make the most of the platform. Whether you're a casual user or a power user, there are options available to suit your needs and preferences.