---
title: ToolRouter — Agent Use Case Guide
description: Step-by-step guide for completing a task with a specific AI agent using ToolRouter.
url: https://toolrouter.com/tools/generate-video/use-cases/generate-animated-thumbnails/chatgpt
---
# How to Generate Animated Thumbnails with ChatGPT

ChatGPT helps you think through the best animation approach for each thumbnail before generating. Describe your content and audience, and ChatGPT suggests which motion effects will maximize click-through rates. Preview the animated result inline and refine the subtlety and timing through conversational iteration until it feels just right.

## Setup

{"mcpServers":{"toolrouter":{"command":"npx","args":["-y","toolrouter-mcp"]}}}

## Steps

1. Configure ToolRouter in ChatGPT via MCP settings
2. Share your static image and describe the animation you want
3. ChatGPT creates the animated version via ToolRouter's image_to_video
4. Refine: "Make the movement more subtle and the loop seamless"
5. Generate animated versions for your top-performing content

## Example Prompt

```
Turn this YouTube thumbnail into an animated preview. Add a gentle zoom that focuses on the product in the center. Keep it subtle and professional, 3-second loop.
```

## Tips

- ChatGPT can suggest which animation style works best for your content type
- Ask for both GIF and MP4 formats for different platform requirements
- Test animated vs static thumbnails and let ChatGPT analyze the results
