Textual overlays displayed on short-form video content provide context, accessibility, and enhance viewer engagement. These typically appear at the bottom of the screen, allowing creators to add humor, explanations, or calls to action to their visual creations. For example, a dance video might include phrases outlining the steps or inviting viewers to try the challenge.
Their significance lies in broadening audience reach, improving comprehension for viewers with auditory limitations, and injecting personality into the content. Historically, these elements evolved from simple text descriptions to sophisticated marketing tools, allowing for brand promotion and direct interaction with followers, leading to increased shares and comments.