YouTube Cracks Down on Inauthentic AI Content in New Monetisation Policy Update

As AI-generated content floods online platforms, YouTube is taking a strong stance with a new monetisation policy update set to roll out on July 15. The platform’s goal is to ensure creators who offer authentic and original content are rewarded—while those relying on mass-produced, low-quality AI material are held back.

This policy shift comes at a time when generative AI tools are being used to churn out massive volumes of videos, often with computer-generated voices, stock visuals, and repurposed media. These videos may attract millions of views, but many lack the creativity or personal touch that YouTube values.

Why Is YouTube Changing Its Monetisation Rules?

The YouTube Partner Program (YPP) has long been a gateway for creators to earn revenue, but with the rise of what some are calling “AI slop“—mass-produced, low-effort videos generated through artificial intelligence—the platform is under pressure to tighten its standards.

Rene Ritchie, YouTube’s Head of Editorial and Creator Liaison, stated this isn’t a radical overhaul, but rather a refinement of existing rules. The focus is on eliminating repetitive, spam-like content that has already been restricted from monetisation in the past.

What’s new is the more specific targeting of inauthentic content, which includes AI-generated narratives, cloned voices, synthetic news reports, and recycled content presented with minimal human input.

What Qualifies as “Inauthentic” Content?

While the updated policies haven’t been fully detailed, YouTube emphasizes that creators should focus on content that is genuine, creative, and adds value. Examples of content that may now fall under the inauthentic category include:

• AI-generated news reports with stock visuals and robotic narration
• True crime or educational videos created entirely with AI tools
• Repetitive reaction videos that don’t offer unique insight or commentary
• Reused clips from TV shows or movies without transformation or originality

YouTube aims to protect its platform integrity, making sure users aren’t misled by machine-generated content disguised as authentic.

Will Reaction Videos and Commentary Be Affected?

Some creators have voiced concerns that their reaction videos or remix-style content may get caught in this crackdown. However, YouTube reassures that original commentary, transformation, and creativity are still encouraged and welcomed.

If a video uses clips or external media but adds insightful, meaningful dialogue, it is still considered original content and remains eligible for monetisation. The key is whether the content reflects the creator’s own voice and perspective.

The Bigger Picture: Fighting the AI Slop Era

With AI-generated videos gaining popularity, YouTube’s updated rules are a direct response to a growing problem. Entire channels based on AI true crime stories or fake news videos have seen viral success—but they contribute to misinformation and erode trust.

The platform is stepping up to prevent abuse of AI and protect the experience for both creators and viewers. It’s a call to content makers everywhere: put authenticity first.

Conclusion: What Creators Should Do Now

If you’re a creator on YouTube, now is the time to review your content strategy. Avoid over-reliance on AI tools, focus on adding personal value, and ensure your videos show creativity and effort.

The YouTube Monetisation Policy Update on July 15 isn’t about punishing innovation—it’s about upholding standards that benefit the entire community.