YouTube is set to roll out new monetisation policies on July 15, aiming to crack down on mass-produced and repetitive content. The update is widely seen as a move to restrict monetisation for low-effort, generative AI-based content, which has surged in recent months.

In its policy announcement, YouTube said the change is intended to "better identify mass-produced and repetitious content", sparking debate among creators. While high-quality AI-assisted videos may still qualify for ads, repetitive slideshows, voiceover clones, and minimally edited stock footage compilations may now face reduced earnings or full demonetisation.

Creators have expressed concern about the lack of clarity on what qualifies as "low effort," but experts believe the platform wants to encourage originality, storytelling, and human touch, even when AI tools are used.

The move reflects YouTube’s attempt to balance innovation and authenticity, protect viewer experience, and ensure advertisers feel confident about where their ads appear.

More detailed enforcement guidelines are expected to be rolled out alongside the update next week.