YouTube tightens monetisation rules, low-quality AI videos to lose revenue

YouTube has announced new monetisation policies for content creators as the use of artificial intelligence (AI) continues to grow, with certain types of AI-generated videos no longer eligible to earn revenue through the YouTube Partner Program (YPP).

The platform said the changes are aimed at curbing the spread of low-quality, repetitive and misleading content while encouraging original, high-quality videos.

Under the updated policy, YouTube has identified three categories of content as "inauthentic content." These include repetitive or mass-produced AI-generated videos, misleading content designed to manipulate viewers' emotions or opinions, and videos using human-like AI characters to discuss sensitive topics such as health, medical treatment, finance or legal advice.

According to YouTube, the rapid rise in AI tools has led to a surge in low-quality videos, undermining the overall quality of the platform while affecting viewers' experience and advertisers' confidence. The company said it will now prioritise content that is original, creative, informative and provides genuine value to audiences.

However, YouTube clarified that it is not banning all AI-generated videos. Content that demonstrates originality, maintains factual accuracy and complies with YouTube's Community Guidelines and monetisation policies will remain eligible to earn revenue.

The new rules mean AI content creators will need to be more careful in producing videos, placing greater emphasis on original presentation, credible information and meaningful human input and editing. Failure to meet those standards could result in the loss of monetisation eligibility.