YouTube is clamping down on “AI Slop” – why?

Luke Meredith

Google is tightening its grip on AI (artificial intelligence)-generated content on YouTube, targeting what it calls “AI Slop”.

The term AI Slop refers to mass-produced, low-effort videos that offer little value. YouTube’s Partner Program will now enforce stricter rules requiring original and authentic content for monetisation.

This action is in response to the saturation of AI-created videos posted on YouTube that received thousands and even millions of views. These videos continually flood the site with low-quality content that dilutes viewer interest and advertiser ROI (return on investment).

For business owners who are utilising YouTube for advertising efforts or brand building, this shift is important. It promises a cleaner content environment where ads appear alongside higher quality, human-created videos. It also illustrates a broader industry shift: platforms are valuing creativity and genuineness over automation.

Brands and businesses who are relying on YouTube for reach or profitability can anticipate an edited future. Content creators may feel an enhanced need to highlight the originality of their work.

Why is Google doing this?

Google can claim that the decision to cut down on low-effort AI content has been made purely to benefit the user experience on platforms like YouTube. However, this may not be the reason – or at least not the only reason.

Just as AI Slop is misleading, unhelpful and even possibly harmful for human consumers, it can also be damaging for AI models too. When content of this nature becomes widely viewed, it’s more likely to be fed back to the type of models that created it in the first place with undue legitimacy.

Think of it like a form of Chinese Whispers, where an AI model is digesting false or harmful information it deems to be true or constructive, and using that information to create subsequent answers it deems to be true or constructive. Companies like Google may be looking to crack down on the amount of AI content reaching their models, instead preferring human-created content it can rely on more to create accurate, human-like responses.

Issues of this nature are most likely not specific to YouTube. If you’ve been provided with incorrect information by AI (looking at you, Google AI Overviews), this could be the result of AI models digesting incorrect information and rehashing it back to you.

At Engage Web, we’re always keeping an eye on technological developments such as AI to ensure we provide the best possible service for our clients. If you want to reach your full potential online, just get in touch with us today.

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Luke Meredith

Content Editor at Engage Web

At home in both the digital sector and the world of communications, Luke thrives on deadlines and has held roles in healthcare, retail and digital marketing, gaining a sound knowledge of a wide range of sectors. He’s a massive swot as well, holding a first-class degree in BA Communication and Media, and now uses his writing skills and keen editorial eye in his role as Content Editor here. Luke helps to oversee our clients’ content requirements, while also looking after a pool of freelance writers across three continents.