Apple is releasing an update for its video editing application, Clips, introducing support for vertical videos, enabling direct sharing to platforms like TikTok and the “Stories” function on various social media networks. This enhancement is a key component of the Clips 3.0 release, which also incorporates support for horizontal video formats, alongside HDR compatibility for iPhone 12 users, and a range of other minor improvements, such as new stickers, audio tracks, and poster options.

Initially launched in 2017, Apple’s Clips was designed as a primary tool for video creation prior to publishing on Instagram. However, the app’s exclusive support for square videos has become increasingly limiting. Contemporary social media content is frequently shared on newer, video-focused platforms like TikTok and its competitors, including Triller, Dubsmash, Instagram Reels, and similar services.

Furthermore, the “Stories” format – prevalent on platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, Pinterest, and soon, Twitter – has emerged as a significant method for users to share content on social media.

Apple reports that the addition of vertical video support was the most requested feature from users since the initial launch of Clips.

Clips 3.0 now accommodates 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios, in addition to the existing square format. Upon opening the app on an iPad, it will automatically default to the landscape orientation, which is particularly beneficial in educational settings where instructors utilize the app with students in classrooms.

iPad users of Clips can also interact with the application while their device is housed in a case, such as the Magic Keyboard for iPad, and it offers compatibility with a mouse or trackpad. Additionally, users can input text into text fields using Apple Pencil.

The updated application now also allows for the recording of HDR video using the rear camera on iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro models.

The overall user interface of Clips has been redesigned. A revamped record screen now appears floating above the viewer when recording in either vertical or horizontal mode, potentially resolving some user feedback regarding the app’s perceived slowness.

Users will also find it easier to locate and access the various Effects options, their existing Clips projects, and other media assets.

These user interface adjustments also appear to draw inspiration from TikTok. For instance, swiping up on the Effects section now reveals a full-height card displaying the available stickers and text labels for videos. This presentation of effects in a pop-up card is reminiscent of TikTok, although it is activated with a swipe gesture rather than a button tap.

The update introduces a wider range of content options, including eight new social stickers (such as “Sound On” for Instagram Stories), 24 additional royalty-free soundtracks (increasing the total library to 100), and six new arrows and shapes. The new Media browser within Clips allows users to import their own photos and videos, or select from a Posters section featuring 70 customizable, animated full-screen title cards for inclusion in videos.

Updated filters, Live Titles, and Selfie scenes are also available.

Upon completion of a project, users can readily share their videos to social networks through a revised sharing screen that provides quick access to destinations like Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Twitter, and Snapchat, alongside standard options like iMessage or local file saving.

Despite not receiving as much attention as some of Apple’s other applications – its last update was six months prior – Clips has cultivated a user base. Apple states that users generate “millions” of Clips projects daily, with higher engagement observed in the U.S., U.K., and China.

This year, Clips usage has increased by 30%, Apple reports – a trend potentially influenced by the shift towards virtual learning, which created a demand for tools enabling educators to produce digital content.

With its broadened focus on vertical video, Clips is positioned to attract a significantly larger audience.

Currently, many users rely on third-party applications, such as InShot, Prequel, Splice, PicCollage, Canva, VSCO, Funimate, KineMaster, Magisto, and CapCut – all popular choices in the App Store – to prepare videos for Stories or TikTok. However, Clips previously lacked the ability to compete due to its absence of vertical video support.

The latest version of Clips is now available to users worldwide.