Snapchat has recently introduced the ability to directly embed and auto-play YouTube videos in Snapchat posts. This new integration eliminates the need to copy and paste YouTube video links, making sharing videos on Snapchat much easier.
Table of Contents
Benefits of Embedding YouTube Videos in Snapchat
Here are some of the key benefits of embedding YouTube videos directly in Snapchat:
Easy Sharing
The new integration allows seamlessly sharing YouTube videos to Snapchat with just a few taps – no more copying and pasting links. Just tap the “Share” button on a YouTube video and select “Snapchat”.
Visual Embedding
YouTube video links can now be visually embedded in Snapchat posts with a thumbnail, title, and channel name. This allows viewers to get a preview of the video before tapping to watch it.
Auto-Play Capability
The embedded YouTube videos can auto-play directly within Snapchat without needing to open the YouTube app, allowing for more seamless video viewing.
Increased Engagement
Visually embedded auto-play videos tend to be more engaging than static hyperlinks. This can lead to more views, shares, and comments on your Snapchat posts.
Step-by-Step Guide to Embedding YouTube Videos
Embedding a YouTube video in Snapchat only takes a few seconds. Follow these simple steps:
1. Open the YouTube App
Open the YouTube app on your mobile device and find the video you want to share.
Tap the “Share” icon below the video title.
3. Select “Snapchat”
Snapchat will appear as an option to share the video to. Tap on the Snapchat icon.
4. Create Your Snap
This will open your Snapchat camera. You can then create a Snap with the YouTube video thumbnail, title and channel name automatically embedded.
5. Add Stickers, Text or Draw
Customize your Snap by adding stickers, text captions or drawing on the screen. The YouTube sticker is movable and resizable.
6. Send Your Snap
Finalize your Snap with the embedded YouTube video and share away! Recipients can simply tap the sticker to view the video.
Best Practices for Snapchat YouTube Videos
To create compelling Snapchat posts with embedded YouTube videos, keep these best practices in mind:
Choose Short Clips
Opt for shorter YouTube clips rather than full videos to align with Snapchat’s ephemeral sharing style. Videos less than 60 seconds tend to perform best.
Use Attention-Grabbing Thumbnails
Leverage eye-catching YouTube video thumbnails to encourage people to tap and watch your shared videos.
Add Text & Stickers
Supplement the embedded videos with engaging captions, emojis or Snapchat’s unique creative tools. This can help convey your message and brand personality.
Encourage Sharing
Inspire viewers to share your Snap by asking them to “tag a friend who needs to see this!” or similar calls-to-action.
Be Consistent
Post YouTube video Snaps consistently to build anticipation and stay top-of-mind with your audience.
Optimizing YouTube Videos for Snapchat
To ensure your YouTube videos show properly when embedded in Snapchat and auto-play smoothly, follow these optimization tips:
Vertical Orientation
Record or edit your YouTube videos to be vertically oriented with an aspect ratio of 9:16.
1080 x 1920 Resolution
Set your YouTube videos to have a 1080 x 1920 pixel resolution to match Snapchat’s technical specifications.
MP4 File Format
Upload YouTube video files with the .MP4 file format for greatest compatibility with Snapchat.
Optimal Bitrate
Use an optimal video bitrate of around 4,000 kbps for the best visual quality within Snapchat’s video player.
Attention-Grabbing Thumbnails
Create custom thumbnails featuring bright colors, text overlays and contrast to stand out among Snapchat posts.
By following these best practices and optimization tips, you can effectively leverage YouTube video embedding to create more engaging and shareable content on Snapchat.
