YouTube has just announced a significant update to its monetization policies, effective July 15, 2025. This new policy could impact thousands of creatorsâespecially those using AI-generated content or re-uploaded videos. If youâre a YouTuber or planning to start a channel, you must understand these new rules to avoid demonetization.
In this post, weâll explain the new monetization requirements, the reasons behind the change, and what you should do to keep earning from your content.
đ What Is the July 15 YouTube Monetization Update?
The YouTube Partner Program (YPP) is undergoing changes aimed at maintaining content quality and originality. Starting July 15, YouTube will strictly monitor AI-generated, reused, and low-quality content. The company says this move is to “support creators who add real value.”
Key Focus Areas of the Update:
- AI-generated voiceovers and avatars
- Reused content without commentary or transformation
- Compilation videos or text-to-speech content
- Looping background videos or stock footage with minimal input
â ď¸ Who Might Be Affected?
The channels most likely to be affected by this policy include:
- AI Voice Channels
Channels that rely solely on AI-generated voice to read scripts (without visuals, personal branding, or human involvement). - Reused Content Creators
Those who re-upload clips, short compilations, or viral videos from social media without adding significant commentary or editing. - Faceless Channels
Not all faceless channels will be demonetized, but ones that show low creativity or originality are at high risk. - Text-to-Speech Content
Videos using robotic voices to read articles or scripts without human voice or engagement elements. - Stock Video Loops
Channels that post motivational quotes, rain sounds, or meditation music over looping videos with no variation.
đ YouTubeâs Official Statement (Summary)
âYouTube values original content and meaningful contributions from creators. To protect viewer experience and advertiser trust, channels submitting reused or low-effort AI content may be removed from the Partner Program.â
â What Type of Content Is Still Safe?
Hereâs the good news. If youâre creating value-added content, even with the help of AI, your channel is safe. Examples of allowed content:
- AI voice + original video editing + commentary
- Tutorials with visual guidance
- AI tools used for assistance, not full content creation
- Faceless videos with custom animation, storytelling, or strong editing
- Podcasts, screen recordings with your voice, and voiceovers with visual interaction
đ Why Is YouTube Doing This?
- Advertiser Confidence:
Brands want their ads shown on trustworthy and original content. - User Experience:
Repetitive and low-quality AI content leads to viewer drop-off. - Platform Integrity:
YouTube is competing with TikTok, Instagram Reels, and AI-based platforms. It wants to ensure its content remains authentic and engaging.
đĄ How to Keep Your Channel Monetized
If youâre already monetized or applying for YPP, here are some tips to stay compliant with the new policy:
- Add Personal Touch â Use your voice, face, or real interaction.
- Edit Smartly â Transform content through editing, narration, or story.
- Avoid Plagiarism â Never reupload othersâ videos without permission.
- Disclose AI Use â If you’re using AI tools, ensure it’s supportive, not the main content.
- Check Analytics â Declining watch time may indicate low engagement due to low-quality content.
đ§ What If You Get Demonetized?
If YouTube demonetizes your channel, youâll receive an email with the reason. Donât panic!
What You Can Do:
- Fix your content (remove reused/AI-heavy videos)
- Add original content with commentary
- Wait 30 days before reapplying to YPP
- Appeal if you believe it was a mistake
đ Final Thoughts
The July 15 YouTube monetization update is a wake-up call for creators relying on shortcuts. YouTube is rewarding creativity, effort, and originalityâwhether you show your face or not. AI can be a tool, but not a replacement for human creativity.
If you’re serious about growing on YouTube and making money long-term, focus on quality, value, and audience connection.