YouTube is looking to add one more means for Shorts creators to monetize, and it also updates a new set of Data Story cards, an effort to be more informative about the video's performance earlier on.

But the biggest update includes a new process that will allow Shorts creators to request that brands partner with them to sponsor their Shorts clips.

Here's how it works, in YouTube's words:

To date, creators who integrated branded content in their videos may already receive direct video linking requests from an advertiser through their email within the YouTube main app and through notifications in the YouTube Studio, where such creators may then accept or reject such request, which, if accepted, could allow the advertiser to view the organic video's performance in Google Ads and thus prove reuse rights for that advertiser. And now we are launching the ability of creators on YPP over 4,000 subscribers to initiate video linking requests for Shorts directly to an advertiser via YouTube Studio.".

So, it will work in the opposite direction. If the creator wants to publish a post that is connected with brands, then they can further appeal to the brand to see if they would be willing and want to utilize it in their marketing campaigns versus approaching the creator directly.

YouTube will display branded sponsored content created by creators. When they opt to run ads, these creator-initiated links will act similarly to advertiser-initiated links, which establish rights between brands and creators, and enable advertisers to see organic video performance in Google Ads.

So, this is not a direct monetization link-in that is, the creator does not receive revenue from any ads which are run using their content. But it will help creators establish brand partnerships, and confirm pre-existing ones, which can be another avenue for Shorts creators to monetize their work-convert their work into paid posting. 

Then, with Shorts engagement still on the rise within the app, this might also be a good time for brands to get even more trending content to help promote their products further.

YouTube's also launching an updated "Data Story" element that will give an overview of your newest video's performance in its first 24 hours.
YouTube's new Data Story will share notes on the key drivers of the performance of a video over its initial access period.
 
YouTube first brought Data Stories last year 2022 as one simple means to highlight insights into the right metrics and ensure creators are aware of such in their process.

This builds on that by keeping creators updated on the key aspects of their content efforts, especially that all-important first posting period.

Finally, YouTube's also testing out a new "Most Relevant" filter for comments, which is intended to highlight opportunities for engagement.

The option will draw attention to comments which could contain questions or other types of comment that offer opportunity to engage, though YouTube hasn't yet given much light to the qualifiers for such.

Hopefully, though, that will be to your advantage in terms of maximizing the engagement time you are able to spend with your viewers, not to mention avoiding missed opportunities to connect with them.

The features are reportedly being tested by YouTube with a small group of creators on Studio mobile and desktop.