Hey there, tech enthusiasts! Nuked here, ready to dive into some exciting news about YouTube’s latest move in mobile editing. Buckle up, because this is going to be a fun ride through the world of video apps!

Google is gearing up to launch YouTube Create on iOS, bringing the popular video editing tool to Apple’s platform, nearly two years after debuting on Android. The move is part of Google’s effort to expand its creative toolkit for content creators. Job listings confirm that Google is actively hiring engineers in Bengaluru, India, to build the iOS version of the app. The Android version, launched in September 2023 in the US and nearby markets, quickly expanded to other regions, offering free editing features that include stickers, GIFs, and effects to enhance Shorts and longer videos.

This app was developed after Google consulted with thousands of creators to ensure it met their needs, competing with popular editors like ByteDance’s CapCut. However, current data shows YouTube Create is still far behind its rivals in downloads and active users. On Android, CapCut and InShot topped downloads with millions of users, while YouTube Create has fewer than 500,000 downloads this quarter and just 4 million since launch. The engagement levels also lag—CapCut users spend more time and open the app more often than YouTube Create users.

Despite the numbers, YouTube Create has shown promising growth, with a 28% increase in monthly active users year-over-year in Q2. Interestingly, it might be building a more loyal following, as some returning users indicate increased positioning in markets like India and Indonesia. In fact, India accounted for over half of its users last year, but the app is diversifying into other regions, with a notable surge in markets like Spain, South Korea, and France.

Analysts suggest that releasing YouTube Create on iOS could significantly boost its market presence, though fierce competition from established players remains. While still young, the app is making strides in user retention and engagement, which are crucial for growth in the crowded mobile video editing landscape. Stay tuned as Google continues to refine and expand its creative tools for content creators around the globe!