YouTube Music has introduced a feature enabling users to alter the cover art of their playlists, though it does not allow for personal image uploads. Instead, users can craft a custom image with the help of generative AI.
As demonstrated in the accompanying GIF, users can generate AI-based artwork by selecting the pen icon found at the bottom right of the playlist’s cover art. From there, they have the option to choose a specific category for their image, such as animals, food and drink, colors, nature, or travel.
Users can then either opt for a “randomize” feature or pick from various prompts, like designing a pug in a Medieval Gothic painting style. The AI will then produce five distinct images for selection. After hitting “save,” the chosen art will serve as the playlist’s cover image.
Currently, this feature is only available to English-speaking users in the United States, but YouTube has announced plans to extend this service to other regions and languages worldwide.
Prior to this update, YouTube would automatically generate an image by merging the artwork of the first four songs in a playlist, creating a grid-like layout. This new feature aims to better encapsulate the vibe of the playlist, even if users can’t upload their own images.
YouTube Music has also revealed several upcoming features for its streaming service, including a “speed dial” function that positions frequently played content on the user’s homepage for easy access. This feature is expected to launch in the upcoming months.
Over the last few months, YouTube Music has undergone numerous changes, introducing custom radio stations, a TikTok-like Samples feature for new music discovery, and a comments section on songs as it seeks to rival Spotify, which has recently experienced a surge in monthly active users.
