YouTube clarified its new policies regarding content created using artificial intelligence, in a step aimed at curbing the spread of what is known as "AI Slop," which is low-quality content produced in large quantities using AI tools solely for profit.

The platform emphasized that the update does not represent an entirely new policy, but rather more precisely clarifies the types of content that will not be eligible for monetization through the YouTube Partner Program (YPP), according to a report published by TechCrunch and reviewed by Al Arabiya Business.

3 types of content will not generate revenue

YouTube divided inauthentic content into three main categories:

1. Repetitive or template-based content

Includes videos produced using AI, computer graphics (CGI), or pre-made templates with only minor changes, leading to dozens of similar clips that lack creativity or real value.

YouTube noted that some tutorial videos may fall into this category if they are merely reproductions of widely available content without adding something new or original processing.

2. Disturbing or shocking content

This category targets videos designed to evoke viewers' emotions or shock them in order to increase views.

Examples provided by the company include clips showing an animal in danger or suffering before a person appears to rescue it, a type of content YouTube said users reject because it relies on emotional manipulation.

The platform confirmed that channels focusing on this type of content may be excluded from the monetization program, whether the content is AI-generated or made manually.

3. AI-generated characters discussing sensitive topics

YouTube also stressed that it does not want to encourage the use of AI-generated characters that mimic real people when discussing sensitive topics such as:

- Health and medical care.

- Financial affairs.

- Legal issues.

- Medical consultations.

The platform believes this type of content may mislead users or provide sensitive information through unreal characters.

AI is not the problem.. but the way it is used

Matt Halprin, head of trust and safety at YouTube, explained that the company does not oppose the use of AI itself, but seeks to prevent what he called "content farms," which are channels that produce massive numbers of similar videos solely to generate revenue.

Halprin said AI can help creators produce high-quality content faster, something YouTube wants to support, but it can also be used to produce repetitive, uncreative videos, which the platform does not want to reward through the partner program.

Why is YouTube tightening now?

The YouTube Partner Program is the primary source of revenue for creators through ads and subscriptions, so the company seeks to maintain the quality of content offered, especially amid increasing competition with television streaming services.

Google data indicates that YouTube now generates ad revenue exceeding many competing streaming platforms, and has surpassed Netflix in terms of average daily viewership globally, making maintaining viewer trust a strategic priority.

The new clarifications went into effect on July 16, and apply to all members of the YouTube Partner Program, with the company confirming that channels dominated by any of these three content types may lose monetization eligibility.

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