Best Free YouTube AI Tools 2025: Transform Your Content Creation Game

YouTube has evolved into the world’s second-largest search engine, with over 2 billion logged-in monthly users consuming billions of hours of content daily. As competition intensifies, content creators are turning to artificial intelligence to streamline their workflow, enhance video quality, and boost channel performance. The good news? You don’t need a massive budget to leverage powerful AI tools for your YouTube channel.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best free YouTube AI tools available in 2025, covering everything from video editing and thumbnail creation to analytics and SEO optimization. Whether you’re a beginner looking to start your YouTube journey or an established creator seeking to optimize your workflow, these tools will help you create professional-quality content without breaking the bank.

Why Use the Best Free YouTube AI Tools 2025?

Discover how the best free YouTube AI tools 2025 can save you time, boost your creativity, and help your channel grow.

The YouTube landscape has become increasingly sophisticated, with creators facing several challenges:

• Content saturation: Over 500 hours of video are uploaded to YouTube every minute
• Algorithm complexity: YouTube’s recommendation system considers hundreds of factors
• Production quality expectations: Viewers expect high-quality audio, video, and engaging content
• Time constraints: Consistent uploading schedules are crucial for growth
• Competition: Millions of creators are vying for the same audience attention

AI tools address these challenges by automating time-consuming tasks, improving content quality, and providing data-driven insights that help creators make informed decisions. The democratization of AI technology means that even small creators can now access tools that were previously available only to large production studios.

Top Features of the Best Free YouTube AI Tools 2025

Explore the must-have features that set the best free YouTube AI tools 2025 apart from the rest.

Top Free AI Video Editing Tools for YouTube

How to Choose the Best Free YouTube AI Tools 2025 for Your Channel

Learn tips for selecting the best free YouTube AI tools 2025 that match your content strategy and goals. For more on AI-powered video creation, check our Best Free AI Video Generators 2025 Guide.

1. DaVinci Resolve

Best for: Professional-grade video editing with AI-powered features

DaVinci Resolve stands out as arguably the most powerful free video editing software available, rivaling expensive professional tools. Its AI capabilities include:

• Smart Reframe: Automatically adjusts aspect ratios for different platforms
• Magic Mask: AI-powered object and person tracking for complex visual effects
• Speed Warp: Motion-estimated frame rate conversion for smooth slow-motion effects
• Face Refinement: Automatic skin smoothing and facial enhancement
• Auto Color: Intelligent color correction based on scene analysis

Some top tools like DaVinci Resolve and Canva offer robust free AI features.

The software’s Fairlight audio page includes AI-powered dialogue enhancement and noise reduction, crucial for YouTube content where audio quality significantly impacts viewer retention.

Key Features for YouTubers:

• Multi-user collaboration capabilities
• Advanced color grading tools
• Professional audio mixing
• Motion graphics and visual effects
• Export presets optimized for YouTube

2. OpenShot

Best for: Beginners seeking simple AI-enhanced editing

OpenShot provides an intuitive interface with several AI-powered features that make video editing accessible to newcomers:

• Auto-sync: Automatically synchronizes audio and video tracks
• Intelligent trimming: AI suggests optimal cut points based on audio and visual analysis
• Automated transitions: Smart transition recommendations based on content flow
• Background removal: Basic AI-powered green screen functionality

While not as feature-rich as DaVinci Resolve, OpenShot’s simplicity makes it perfect for creators who want to incorporate AI assistance without a steep learning curve.

3. Shotcut

Best for: Cross-platform editing with AI filters

Shotcut offers a robust set of features including AI-enhanced filters and effects:

• Audio normalization: Automatically balances audio levels across clips
• Stabilization: AI-powered video stabilization for shaky footage
• Chroma key: Intelligent background removal with edge detection
• Audio filters: AI-enhanced noise reduction and vocal isolation

Free AI Thumbnail Creation Tools

Thumbnails are arguably the most important factor in determining click-through rates on YouTube. AI-powered thumbnail tools can significantly improve your visual appeal and performance.

1. Canva (Free Tier)

Best for: Template-based thumbnail creation with AI assistance

Canva’s free tier includes several AI-powered features specifically designed for YouTube thumbnails:

• Background Remover: AI-powered background removal for product shots and portraits
• Magic Resize: Automatically adapts designs for different platform requirements
• Design suggestions: AI recommends layouts based on your content type
• Color palette generator: Creates cohesive color schemes from uploaded images
• Font pairing: AI suggests complementary typography combinations

Pro Tips for Canva Thumbnails:

• Use high-contrast colors to stand out in YouTube’s interface
• Include faces when possible, as they increase click-through rates by up to 30%
• Keep text large and readable on mobile devices
• Test different thumbnail styles to identify what resonates with your audience

2. Adobe Express (Free Tier)

Best for: Quick thumbnail creation with professional polish

Adobe Express leverages Adobe’s AI technology (Adobe Sensei) to offer:

• Quick Actions: One-click background removal and image enhancement
• Smart crop: AI automatically identifies the best crop for thumbnail dimensions
• Template recommendations: AI suggests templates based on your channel niche
• Brand kit integration: Maintains consistent visual branding across thumbnails

3. Remove.bg

Best for: Professional background removal

This specialized tool uses advanced AI to remove backgrounds from images with remarkable precision:

• Hair detail preservation: Maintains fine details like hair and fur edges
• Bulk processing: Handle multiple images simultaneously
• API integration: Can be integrated into other workflow tools
• Multiple format support: Works with various image formats and resolutions

AI-Powered Content Research and Planning Tools

1. Google Trends

Best for: Identifying trending topics and seasonal content opportunities

While not exclusively an AI tool, Google Trends uses machine learning to analyze search patterns:

• Trending searches: Identify viral topics in real-time
• Seasonal insights: Plan content around predictable search spikes
• Geographic data: Understand where your audience is located
• Related queries: Discover content ideas based on search behavior
• YouTube-specific data: Filter results specifically for YouTube search trends

Strategic Applications:

• Plan evergreen content around consistent search terms
• Create timely content around trending topics
• Understand seasonal content opportunities
• Identify emerging niches before they become saturated

2. Answer The Public

Best for: Question-based content ideation

This tool uses AI to aggregate and visualize search queries, perfect for creating educational YouTube content:

• Question mapping: Visual representation of what people are asking about your topic
• Preposition insights: Understand how people search for information
• Comparison data: Identify what your audience wants to compare
• Alphabetical suggestions: Comprehensive keyword variations

3. VidIQ (Free Tier)

Best for: YouTube-specific SEO and analytics

VidIQ’s free tier includes AI-powered features designed specifically for YouTube optimization:

• Keyword research: AI suggests high-performing keywords for your niche
• Tag recommendations: Automatically suggests relevant tags based on your video content
• Competitor analysis: AI analyzes successful videos in your niche
• Best time to post: Machine learning algorithms suggest optimal upload times
• Thumbnail previews: See how your thumbnail appears across different devices

Free AI Tools for Video Enhancement

1. Runway ML (Free Tier)

Best for: Advanced AI video effects and enhancement

Runway ML offers several free AI-powered video enhancement features:

• Green screen: AI-powered background removal without requiring a physical green screen
• Super-Slow Motion: Generate slow-motion effects from regular footage
• Inpainting: Remove unwanted objects from video frames
• Style transfer: Apply artistic styles to video content
• Upscaling: Enhance video resolution using AI

Use Cases for YouTubers:

• Create professional-looking content without expensive equipment
• Fix minor issues in post-production
• Add creative effects that stand out in the YouTube feed
• Enhance older content for re-uploading

2. Waifu2x

Best for: Image and video upscaling

This tool uses deep learning to enhance low-resolution images and videos:

• Noise reduction: Removes artifacts from compressed images
• Resolution enhancement: Increases image resolution while maintaining quality
• Batch processing: Handle multiple files simultaneously
• Animation support: Works with both static images and animated content

3. DeepL (Free Tier)

Best for: Multi-language content creation

DeepL’s AI translation capabilities can help expand your YouTube audience globally:

• Subtitle translation: Create accurate subtitles in multiple languages
• Description translation: Translate video descriptions for international audiences
• Comment engagement: Understand and respond to international viewers
• Content localization: Adapt content for different cultural contexts

• Discover more about AI blogging tools.
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AI-Powered Analytics and Optimization Tools

1. YouTube Analytics (Built-in AI)

Best for: Understanding audience behavior with AI insights

YouTube’s native analytics platform incorporates machine learning to provide actionable insights:

• Audience retention graphs: AI identifies drop-off points and suggests improvements
• Traffic source analysis: Machine learning categorizes how viewers find your content
• Impression click-through rate: AI provides benchmark comparisons and optimization suggestions
• Revenue optimization: Automated suggestions for monetization improvements

Key Metrics to Monitor:

• Average view duration and audience retention curves
• Click-through rates on thumbnails and titles
• Subscriber conversion rates
• Traffic sources and discovery patterns

2. Social Blade (Free Tier)

Best for: Competitor analysis and growth tracking

Social Blade uses AI algorithms to analyze YouTube channel performance:

• Growth projections: Predicts future subscriber and view counts
• Ranking systems: Compares your performance against similar channels
• Trend analysis: Identifies patterns in successful content
• Network insights: Understands multi-channel network performance

3. Morningfame (Free Tier)

Best for: Comprehensive YouTube optimization insights

Morningfame’s AI analyzes your channel performance and provides actionable recommendations:

• Video optimization scores: AI evaluates your content against ranking factors
• Keyword suggestions: Machine learning identifies high-opportunity keywords
• Upload timing: AI recommends optimal posting schedules
• Thumbnail analysis: Evaluates thumbnail effectiveness using computer vision

Free AI Tools for Audio Enhancement

1. Audacity with AI Plugins

Best for: Comprehensive audio editing with AI enhancement

Audacity, combined with free AI plugins, provides professional audio editing capabilities:

• Noise reduction: AI-powered noise profiling and removal
• Voice isolation: Separate vocals from background music
• Audio restoration: Repair damaged or low-quality audio recordings
• Automatic leveling: Maintain consistent volume throughout your video

Recommended AI Plugins:

• Facebook Denoiser: Advanced noise reduction
• LALAL.AI: Vocal and instrumental separation
• Krisp: Real-time noise cancellation

2. Reaper (Free Trial with AI Extensions)

Best for: Professional audio production

While technically a trial version, Reaper’s 60-day free trial provides access to professional features:

• ReaFIR: Spectral editing and noise reduction
• AI-powered mastering: Automatic level adjustment and EQ
• Voice processing: Intelligent vocal enhancement
• Multi-track editing: Professional audio mixing capabilities

AI Writing and Script Generation Tools

1. ChatGPT (Free Tier)

Best for: Script writing and content ideation

OpenAI’s ChatGPT can significantly streamline your content creation process:

Script Writing Applications:

• Generate video outlines based on your topic and target audience
• Create engaging introductions and conclusions
• Develop talking points for complex subjects
• Write compelling video descriptions optimized for SEO

Content Strategy Uses:

• Brainstorm series ideas for consistent content creation
• Generate clickbait titles that maintain authenticity
• Create content calendars aligned with trending topics
• Develop audience engagement strategies

Best Practices for YouTube Scripts:

• Use ChatGPT to structure your ideas, then add your personal voice
• Generate multiple script variations to test different approaches
• Create detailed outlines that maintain natural speaking flow
• Develop compelling hooks for the first 15 seconds of your videos

2. Claude (Free Tier)

Best for: Long-form content and research assistance

Anthropic’s Claude excels at creating detailed, well-researched content:

• Research synthesis: Combines multiple sources into coherent narratives
• Fact-checking assistance: Helps verify information before publication
• Content adaptation: Transforms written content into video-friendly scripts
• Educational content: Creates structured, easy-to-follow explanations

3. Perplexity (Free Tier)

Best for: Research-backed content creation

Perplexity combines AI with real-time web search to create well-sourced content:

• Current information: Access to up-to-date information for timely content
• Source citations: Provides credible sources for fact-based videos
• Trend analysis: Identifies emerging topics in your niche
• Competitive research: Analyzes what successful creators in your space are discussing

Free AI Tools for SEO and Discovery

1. Google Keyword Planner

Best for: YouTube SEO keyword research

Google’s free keyword research tool provides insights directly applicable to YouTube:

• Search volume data: Understand how many people search for specific terms
• Keyword difficulty: Assess competition levels for target keywords
• Related keywords: Discover variations and long-tail opportunities
• Seasonal trends: Plan content around predictable search patterns

YouTube SEO Strategy:

• Target long-tail keywords with lower competition
• Include primary keywords in video titles, descriptions, and tags
• Create content around questions your audience is asking
• Monitor keyword performance and adjust strategy accordingly

2. Ubersuggest (Free Tier)

Best for: Comprehensive SEO analysis

Neil Patel’s Ubersuggest provides YouTube-specific insights:

• Video keyword suggestions: AI-powered keyword recommendations for video content
• Competitor video analysis: Analyze successful videos in your niche
• Content gap analysis: Identify topics your competitors haven’t covered
• SERP analysis: Understand what types of content rank for target keywords

3. TubeBuddy (Free Tier)

Best for: YouTube-specific optimization

TubeBuddy’s free tier includes AI-powered features designed specifically for YouTube creators:

• Tag suggestions: AI recommends relevant tags based on your video content
• Title optimization: Suggests improvements to increase click-through rates
• Thumbnail analyzer: AI evaluates thumbnail effectiveness
• Best practice audit: Automatically checks your videos against YouTube best practices

AI Tools for Live Streaming and Real-Time Content

1. OBS Studio with AI Plugins

Best for: Enhanced live streaming production

OBS Studio, combined with free AI plugins, can dramatically improve your live streaming quality:

• Background replacement: Real-time background removal and replacement
• Noise suppression: AI-powered audio cleanup during live streams
• Auto-framing: Automatically keeps you centered in the frame
• Scene transitions: Smart scene switching based on audio cues

Recommended Free Plugins:

• NVIDIA Broadcast: Advanced noise removal and background effects
• OBS-web: Browser-based overlay management
• StreamLabs: AI-powered alerts and engagement tools

2. Streamlabs (Free Tier)

Best for: Stream management and audience engagement

Streamlabs incorporates AI to enhance live streaming experiences:

• Chat moderation: AI automatically filters inappropriate comments
• Highlight detection: Identifies exciting moments for clip creation
• Viewer analytics: AI analyzes audience engagement patterns
• Alert customization: Smart notifications based on viewer behavior

Free AI Tools for Subtitle and Caption Generation

1. YouTube’s Automatic Captions

Best for: Basic subtitle generation with manual refinement

YouTube’s built-in AI caption system has improved significantly:

• Multiple language support: Automatic captions in over 10 languages
• Timing accuracy: AI precisely times captions to match speech
• Speaker identification: Distinguishes between different speakers
• Punctuation prediction: Adds appropriate punctuation automatically

Optimization Tips:

• Always review and edit automatic captions for accuracy
• Add custom captions for better SEO performance
• Include sound effects and music descriptions for accessibility
• Use captions to highlight key points and improve retention

2. Otter.ai (Free Tier)

Best for: High-accuracy transcription for script creation

Otter.ai’s free tier provides excellent transcription services:

• Real-time transcription: Live transcription during recording or streaming
• Speaker identification: Automatically identifies different speakers
• Keyword highlighting: AI identifies important terms and phrases
• Export options: Multiple formats for easy integration with editing software

3. Rev.ai (Free Tier)

Best for: Professional-quality transcription

Rev.ai offers accurate transcription services with AI enhancement:

• High accuracy rates: Industry-leading transcription accuracy
• Custom vocabulary: Train AI to recognize specialized terms
• Timestamp precision: Exact timing for subtitle synchronization
• Multiple export formats: Compatible with all major video editing platforms

AI Tools for Thumbnail and Graphics Creation

1. DALL-E 2 (Free Credits)

Best for: Custom thumbnail artwork and graphics

OpenAI’s DALL-E 2 can create unique thumbnail elements:

• Custom illustrations: Generate unique artwork for your thumbnails
• Style consistency: Maintain visual branding across your channel
• Concept visualization: Create images for abstract or complex topics
• Background generation: Design custom backgrounds for talking head videos

Thumbnail Creation Strategies:

• Generate eye-catching background elements
• Create consistent character illustrations for your brand
• Design unique icons and symbols for series content
• Produce seasonal or themed graphic elements

2. Stable Diffusion (Various Free Implementations)

Best for: Advanced image generation with local control

Several free platforms offer Stable Diffusion access:

• Dream Studio: Free credits for high-quality image generation
• Hugging Face Spaces: Free access to various Stable Diffusion models
• Playground AI: Free tier with commercial usage rights
• NightCafe: AI art generator with daily free credits

3. Midjourney (Limited Free Trial)

Best for: Artistic thumbnail creation

While primarily a paid service, Midjourney occasionally offers free trials:

• Artistic style generation: Create unique artistic thumbnails
• Concept art: Visualize complex ideas for educational content
• Brand imagery: Develop consistent visual themes
• Promotional graphics: Design eye-catching promotional materials

Free AI Analytics and Performance Tools

1. YouTube Studio Analytics (AI-Enhanced)

Best for: Native platform insights

YouTube Studio has integrated more AI-powered insights:

• Content performance prediction: AI predicts video performance based on early metrics
• Audience insights: Machine learning identifies audience preferences and behaviors
• Revenue optimization: AI suggests monetization improvements
• Growth recommendations: Personalized suggestions for channel development

2. Google Analytics 4 (Free)

Best for: Cross-platform audience analysis

GA4’s AI capabilities provide deep insights into your YouTube audience:

• Predictive metrics: AI forecasts future performance trends
• Audience segmentation: Machine learning identifies distinct viewer groups
• Attribution modeling: Understands the complete viewer journey
• Anomaly detection: Automatically identifies unusual performance patterns

3. Hootsuite Insights (Free Tier)

Best for: Social media performance tracking

Hootsuite’s free tier includes AI-powered social media analytics:

• Sentiment analysis: AI evaluates audience reactions to your content
• Optimal posting times: Machine learning identifies when your audience is most active
• Content performance prediction: AI forecasts which content types will perform best
• Competitive benchmarking: Compare your performance against similar creators

AI Content Moderation and Community Management

1. YouTube’s Comment Moderation AI

Best for: Automated comment filtering

YouTube’s built-in AI moderation tools help manage your community:

• Spam detection: Automatically identifies and removes spam comments
• Inappropriate content filtering: AI flags potentially harmful comments
• Held for review: Questionable comments are automatically held for manual review
• Custom filters: Train AI to recognize specific terms or patterns to block

2. Perspective API (Free)

Best for: Advanced comment analysis

Google’s Perspective API uses machine learning to evaluate comment toxicity:

• Toxicity scoring: Numerical assessment of comment harmfulness
• Multiple language support: Works across various languages
• Custom integration: Can be integrated into custom moderation tools
• Real-time analysis: Instant evaluation of incoming comments

Emerging AI Tools for YouTube Creators

1. RunwayML (Free Tier)

Best for: Experimental AI video effects

Runway’s creative AI tools offer unique video enhancement capabilities:

• Motion tracking: AI-powered object tracking for complex effects
• Style transfer: Apply artistic styles to video content
• Object removal: Remove unwanted elements from footage
• Frame interpolation: Create smooth slow-motion from regular footage

2. Luma AI

Best for: 3D content creation

Luma AI democratizes 3D content creation for YouTube:

• 3D scanning: Create 3D models from regular video footage
• Virtual backgrounds: Generate realistic 3D environments
• Product visualization: Create 3D product demonstrations
• Interactive content: Develop immersive video experiences

3. Synthesis.ai

Best for: Synthetic media creation

This emerging technology offers new possibilities for content creation:

• Virtual presenters: AI-generated hosts for educational content
• Multilingual content: Create content in multiple languages without multiple recordings
• Consistent branding: Maintain visual consistency across all content
• Scalable production: Produce content at scale without additional filming

Best Practices for Implementing AI Tools in Your YouTube Workflow

1. Start Small and Scale Gradually

Begin with one or two AI tools that address your biggest pain points:

• Identify bottlenecks: Determine which aspects of content creation consume the most time
• Test tool effectiveness: Measure the impact of each tool on your workflow
• Learn progressively: Master one tool before adding another to your workflow
• Maintain quality standards: Ensure AI assistance doesn’t compromise content quality

2. Maintain Your Unique Voice

While AI can enhance your content, it’s crucial to preserve your authentic personality:

• Use AI for efficiency, not replacement: Let AI handle technical tasks while you focus on creativity
• Review all AI-generated content: Always edit and personalize AI outputs
• Maintain consistent brand voice: Ensure AI tools align with your established style
• Engage authentically: Use AI insights to better connect with your audience, not replace genuine interaction

3. Stay Updated with AI Developments

The AI landscape evolves rapidly, with new tools and features launching regularly:

• Follow AI news: Stay informed about new tools and capabilities
• Join creator communities: Learn from other creators’ experiences with AI tools
• Experiment with beta features: Test new AI capabilities as they become available
• Provide feedback: Help improve AI tools by sharing your experiences with developers

Privacy and Ethical Considerations

1. Data Privacy

When using free AI tools, consider how your data is being used:

• Read terms of service: Understand how your content and data are processed
• Consider data retention: Know how long your information is stored
• Evaluate commercial usage rights: Ensure you maintain rights to AI-generated content
• Protect sensitive information: Avoid uploading confidential content to AI platforms

2. Disclosure and Transparency

Maintain transparency with your audience about AI usage:

• Disclose AI assistance: Be open about using AI tools in your content creation process
• Maintain authenticity: Ensure AI enhances rather than replaces your genuine voice
• Credit AI tools: Acknowledge significant AI contributions to your content
• Educational opportunities: Share your AI workflow to help other creators

Measuring ROI and Success with AI Tools

1. Key Performance Indicators

Track specific metrics to measure AI tool effectiveness:

Production Efficiency:

• Time saved per video produced
• Consistency of upload schedules
• Quality improvements in content output
• Reduction in post-production errors

Audience Engagement:

• Click-through rate improvements from AI-optimized thumbnails
• Audience retention increases from better editing
• Comment engagement and sentiment improvements
• Subscriber growth rate acceleration

Channel Growth:

• Increased video views and impressions
• Improved search ranking for target keywords
• Enhanced discovery through optimized metadata
• Revenue growth from better monetization

2. Long-term Strategy Development

Use AI insights to inform your long-term YouTube strategy:

• Content planning: Use AI analytics to plan future content series
• Audience development: Identify and target new audience segments
• Monetization optimization: Leverage AI recommendations to increase revenue
• Brand development: Use consistent AI-enhanced visuals to strengthen your brand

Future of AI in YouTube Content Creation

1. Emerging Technologies

Several AI developments will shape YouTube’s future:

• Real-time translation: Live translation of speech for global audiences
• Advanced deepfake detection: Ensuring content authenticity
• Personalized content: AI-generated variations for different audience segments
• Automated editing: Complete video editing from raw footage
• Virtual production: AI-powered virtual sets and environments

2. Preparing for AI Evolution

Position yourself for future AI developments:

• Develop AI literacy: Understand how different AI technologies work
• Build adaptable workflows: Create systems that can incorporate new AI tools
• Focus on uniquely human elements: Emphasize creativity, personality, and authentic connection
• Invest in learning: Continuously educate yourself about AI capabilities and limitations

Final Thoughts on Best Free YouTube AI Tools 2025

The best free YouTube AI tools 2025 are essential for anyone serious about content creation in the coming year.

Conclusion: Maximizing Your YouTube Success with Free AI Tools

The democratization of AI technology has created unprecedented opportunities for YouTube creators to produce professional-quality content without significant financial investment. By strategically implementing the free AI tools outlined in this guide, you can streamline your workflow, enhance content quality, and improve channel performance.

Success with AI tools requires a balanced approach: leverage automation for efficiency while maintaining the authentic voice and creativity that sets your channel apart. Start by identifying your biggest challenges—whether that’s editing time, thumbnail design, or SEO optimization—and implement AI solutions that address these specific needs.

Remember that AI tools are most effective when they enhance rather than replace human creativity. Use these technologies to handle repetitive tasks, gain insights from data, and experiment with new creative possibilities, but always maintain the personal connection and unique perspective that draws viewers to your channel.

The AI landscape continues evolving rapidly, with new tools and capabilities emerging regularly. Stay curious, experiment with new technologies, and remain focused on creating valuable content for your audience. The creators who succeed in 2025 and beyond will be those who effectively combine AI efficiency with human authenticity.

As you implement these tools, monitor their impact on your channel’s performance and adjust your strategy accordingly. The goal isn’t to use every available AI tool, but to thoughtfully integrate those that provide genuine value to your content creation process and audience experience.

The future of YouTube content creation is here, and it’s powered by AI. By embracing these free tools today, you’re positioning yourself for continued success in an increasingly competitive and sophisticated digital landscape.