YouTube Shorts Templates in 2026: Use Templates, Remix Eligibility & Opt-Out

YouTube Shorts templates let creators reuse the structure of an eligible Short instead of rebuilding timing, text, music and clip placement from scratch.

What a Shorts template includes

A template can preserve the framework of a Short, including:

• Number of video clips
• Clip lengths
• Text segments
• Music
• Effects

You then replace the source creator’s footage with your own clips while keeping the template structure.

How to use a template

1. Open YouTube on mobile.
2. Find an eligible Short.
3. Tap Remix.
4. Select Use this template.
5. Add your own clips.
6. Finish editing and publish the Short.

Some Shorts also show a direct Use template button.

Which Shorts can become templates?

YouTube says eligible Shorts may be used as templates by default when they include elements such as remixable audio, multiple video clips and text segments.

Templates depend on remix eligibility

Template eligibility is connected to Shorts remixing. If a creator opts out of Shorts remixing, their Shorts can also stop being available as templates.

For the broader permission controls, see our YouTube Shorts Remix Permissions guide.

Templates vs copying

A template gives you a structure, not permission to copy another creator’s full creative concept, branding or original footage outside YouTube’s remix tools. The strongest use is to borrow pacing or format while replacing the actual content with your own idea.

When templates are useful

• Trend participation
• Before/after formats
• Fast product comparisons
• Multi-clip transformations
• Recurring series formats
• Timed text-and-music sequences

When not to use a template

If the Short depends on a unique story, original editing rhythm or highly specific brand identity, starting from a template can make the result feel generic. Templates are a speed tool, not a replacement for creative direction.

Creator checklist

1. Use templates only when the structure fits your topic.
2. Replace the source footage with original material.
3. Keep the hook relevant to your own audience.
4. Review music availability before publishing.
5. Opt out of remixing if you do not want eligible Shorts used as templates.

Official source

See YouTube’s current Shorts templates documentation.