Step-by-Step: Using Google Drive’s New Video Editing Features (2025)

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Google Drive has long been a go-to solution for storing and sharing files online. In 2025, Google Drive has introduced an exciting suite of video editing features, allowing users to edit their videos directly within the cloud. This tutorial will guide you through the process of using Google Drive’s new video editing features, so you can make the most of this powerful tool for your video projects.

Getting Started with Google Drive Video Editing

Before diving into the editing features, you’ll need to have a video file uploaded to your Google Drive. Here’s how to get started:

Uploading Your Video to Google Drive

  1. Go to Google Drive and sign in with your Google account.
  2. Click on the ‘New’ button at the top left corner of the interface.
  3. Select ‘File upload’ or ‘Folder upload’ depending on whether you want to upload individual files or an entire folder of videos.
  4. Browse your computer to find the video file you want to edit and select it. Click ‘Open’ to start the upload.
  5. Wait for the upload to complete. You can track the progress in the bottom right corner of your Google Drive window.

Opening the Video Editor

  1. Once your video is uploaded, right-click on the video file in your Google Drive.
  2. Select ‘Open with’ and then choose ‘Google Drive Video Editor’ from the list of available apps.
  3. The video editor will open in a new tab or window, depending on your browser settings.

Basic Video Editing Features

Google Drive’s video editor offers a range of basic video editing tools that are perfect for quick edits and touch-ups. Let’s explore how to use these tools.

Trimming Your Video

  1. Click on the ‘Trim’ tool in the toolbar.
  2. A timeline will appear at the bottom of the editor. Drag the handles on either end of the timeline to select the portion of the video you want to keep.
  3. Click ‘Preview’ to watch the trimmed section of your video.
  4. If you’re satisfied with the result, click ‘Done’ to apply the trim.

Adjusting Brightness and Contrast

  1. Select the ‘Adjustments’ tool from the toolbar.
  2. Use the sliders to adjust the brightness and contrast of your video.
  3. Click ‘Preview’ to see the changes in real-time.
  4. Once you’re happy with the adjustments, click ‘Done’.

Adding Text to Your Video

  1. Choose the ‘Text’ tool from the toolbar.
  2. Type the text you want to add in the text box that appears on the video.
  3. Customize the font, size, color, and position of your text using the options provided.
  4. Preview your text overlay, and once satisfied, click ‘Done’.

Advanced Video Editing Features

For those looking to create more sophisticated edits, Google Drive’s video editor also includes a set of advanced features.

Adding Transitions Between Clips

  1. If you have multiple clips in your project, click on the transition icon that appears between clips on the timeline.
  2. Choose a transition style from the collection of fades, wipes, and slides.
  3. Adjust the duration of the transition if necessary.
  4. Preview the transition effect and click ‘Done’ when you’re happy with how it looks.

Applying Filters

  1. Click on the ‘Filters’ tool in the toolbar.
  2. Browse through the available filters and select one to apply to your video clip.
  3. You can preview the filter effect directly on the video.
  4. Click ‘Done’ to apply your chosen filter.

Using the Picture-in-Picture Effect

  1. Within the video editor, select the ‘Picture-in-Picture’ tool.
  2. Add a second video or an image from your Google Drive that you want to overlay on your main video.
  3. Resize and reposition the overlay as desired.
  4. Set the duration for how long you want the overlay to appear in your video.
  5. Preview the Picture-in-Picture effect and click ‘Done’ to apply it.

Adding Music or Audio Tracks

  1. Select the ‘Audio’ tool from the toolbar.
  2. Choose an audio file from your Google Drive or upload a new one.
  3. Drag the audio file onto the timeline and adjust it to fit with your video.
  4. Use the audio editing tools to fade in or fade out the sound, or adjust the volume levels.
  5. After adjusting the audio settings, click ‘Done’ to apply the changes.

Exporting and Sharing Your Edited Video

Once you’ve completed editing your video, the next step is to export it and share it with others.

Exporting Your Video

  1. Click on the ‘Export’ button in the video editor toolbar.
  2. Choose the video resolution and format that you prefer.
  3. Click ‘Export’ and wait for the process to complete. The time it takes will depend on the length and quality of your video.
  4. Once the export is finished, you’ll receive a notification, and your edited video will be saved to your Google Drive.

Sharing Your Video

  1. Find the exported video in your Google Drive.
  2. Right-click on the video file and select ‘Share’.
  3. Enter the email addresses of the people you want to share the video with, or get a shareable link to send it manually.
  4. Set the appropriate permissions for viewers, commenters, or editors.
  5. Click ‘Send’ or ‘Copy Link’ to share your video.

Troubleshooting and Tips

As with any new tool, you might encounter issues or have questions while using Google Drive’s video editing features. Here are some common troubleshooting tips:

  • If the video editor is not loading properly, try clearing your browser cache or opening the editor in an incognito window.
  • Ensure your internet connection is stable, as video editing online requires a consistent connection for smooth operation.
  • If you experience lags or slow performance, consider closing other tabs or applications to free up system resources.
  • For best results, use Google Chrome as your browser, as it tends to have better compatibility with Google’s services.
  • If you’re unable to find a specific editing feature, make sure you’re using the latest version of Google Drive. Google often updates its apps with new features and improvements.
  • For further assistance, visit the Google Drive Help Center or check out the Google Workspace Updates blog for the latest news on features and updates.

By following these step-by-step instructions, you can take advantage of Google Drive’s new video editing features to create polished, professional-looking videos right in the cloud. With tools for both basic and advanced editing, this addition to Google Drive makes it easier than ever to manage and edit video content without the need for additional software.

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