YouTube to Enforce Stricter Monetization Rules Targeting Low-Effort AI Content
YouTube is set to roll out stricter monetization policies starting July 15, 2025, with a renewed focus on rewarding originality and human input.
The updated guidelines will specifically target low-effort, inauthentic content, particularly videos that rely heavily on AI-generated voices, stock footage, and minimal creator involvement.
The video-sharing giant announced the changes through an update to its YouTube Partner Program (YPP), underlining that the goal is to better reflect what “inauthentic” content looks like in today’s digital landscape.
“In order to monetize as part of the YouTube Partner Program (YPP), YouTube has always required creators to upload “original” and “authentic” content. On July 15, 2025, YouTube is updating our guidelines to better identify mass-produced and repetitious content. This update better reflects what “inauthentic” content looks like today,” reads part of the update.
Crackdown on Lazy AI Usage
While YouTube is not banning the use of AI tools altogether, it is taking a strong stance against what it describes as “lazy AI usage.”
This includes content that uses synthetic narration to read scripts over generic visuals or videos built from templated slideshows without meaningful creative input.
Instead, YouTube is encouraging creators to use AI in ways that enhance creativity, not replace it. The platform will now prioritize content that includes original commentary, insightful analysis, or storytelling that demonstrates clear creator involvement.
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No Change to Core Monetization Thresholds
The updated policy will not change the core eligibility thresholds for the YPP. Creators will still need at least 1,000 subscribers and either 4,000 watch hours in the past year or 10 million Shorts views in the past 90 days.
However, meeting those numbers won’t be enough—channels must also pass a more rigorous review to ensure their content reflects authentic, high-effort creation.
Greater Scrutiny for Repetitive or Mass-Produced Content
Channels that rely on repetitious or mass-produced formats may now be flagged during the review process.
This could include compilation videos, slideshow-style presentations, or content with little to no commentary or personal voice.
YouTube says it will be focusing on whether a creator adds “significant value” through originality and substance.
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