YouTube has announced an update to its monetization policy, which will take effect on July 15, 2025. The company will clarify what content is considered "inauthentic" and cannot generate revenue for creators.
According to an update to the help page, the new wording will help better understand what would be considered "mass-generated" or "repetitive" video. This includes content that can be easily created using generative AI, such as videos with synthesized voice, automatic frame cutting, or re-composed fragments of other people's videos.
YouTube emphasizes that such products have long been prohibited from monetization because they are often perceived by viewers as spam. However, classic reactions, reviews, or videos with clippings do not fall under the restrictions.
However, the rise of so-called AI slop — low-quality content created with the help of AI — is a concern. The platform has previously faced viral videos generated entirely by artificial intelligence, fake news and trailers, and phishing campaigns using images of famous people.
The policy update should give YouTube more options to combat such channels, including by blocking their access to the Partner Program.