YouTube Monetization Update 2025: In July 2025, YouTube made new rules for people who want to earn money from their videos. These new rules are part of the YouTube Partner Program (YPP), which lets creators earn money from ads shown on their videos.
Now, YouTube is being more strict. They want videos that are made with effort. If you just copy videos from other places or use a robot voice to read text without adding your own ideas, YouTube may not let you earn money anymore. These rules are meant to stop low-effort or fake videos from filling up YouTube.
But if you create something new, fun, or helpful, you don’t have to worry. YouTube wants to reward real creators who are putting in time and creativity. So if you’re using your own voice, face, thoughts, or editing, this update is actually good for you.
What is “Inauthentic Content”?
YouTube now uses the term “inauthentic content” to describe videos that feel fake or are too similar to each other. This includes things like:
- Using the same robot voice in many videos
- Uploading slideshows with no voice or music
- Copying content from others without changing it
Basically, if it looks like a machine made it, and not a real person, YouTube might not allow it for monetization.
YouTube wants to see effort. Add your own voice. Talk in your style. Add jokes, comments, or stories. Even if you use tools to help, the final video should feel like it came from YOU.
Can I Use AI Tools for My Videos?
Yes, you can! AI tools like ChatGPT, Canva, or voice generators are helpful for ideas, writing scripts, or editing. But here’s the rule: Don’t let the AI do everything.
If you use AI to write a script, then read it in your voice or act it out, that’s great. But if you copy-paste the AI script into a robot voice and upload stock footage without any personal touch, YouTube might say no.
Think of AI as your helper—not the full creator. Your video should always feel like it was made by a person, not a computer.
Who Can Earn Money on YouTube? (No Change in Requirements)
The basic rules to join the YouTube Partner Program are still the same. To earn money from ads, you need:
- At least 1,000 subscribers
- 4,000 public watch hours in the last 12 months OR
- 10 million views on Shorts in the last 90 days
There’s also a new fan support option for smaller creators. If you have:
- 500 subscribers
- 3 uploaded videos in the last 90 days
You can earn through Super Thanks, Super Chats, and channel memberships—even if you don’t meet the ad money requirements.
So, even new or small channels can begin making money!
Who Will Lose Money Because of the New Rules?
The creators most affected by this update are those who:
- Upload too many similar videos
- Use only robot voices
- Use content they didn’t make or change
For example, a channel that posts 100 videos with the same background, same voice, and no real talking or editing may get demonetized.
But if you speak in your voice, give real opinions, edit your videos, and show you put effort into your channel, you’ll be okay. In fact, you’ll stand out more now because low-effort channels are being removed.
What Kinds of Videos Are Still Okay?
Many fun video types are still okay, and they can make money too! These include:
- Reaction videos: As long as you share your real reactions, thoughts, or funny comments.
- Compilation videos: But only if you explain, edit, or add something new.
- Gaming videos: Show how you play, talk about the game, or give tips.
- Vlogs: Share your day, a story, or an experience.
The simple rule: If you’re adding your voice, face, edits, or opinions, you’re doing fine. Just don’t take videos from other people and upload them without changes.
How Will YouTube Check Videos?
YouTube uses smart tools and real people to check videos. Their computers look for patterns—like videos that all sound the same or repeat the same script. If something seems off, a YouTube worker will watch the video and decide.
If your content breaks the rules, YouTube can:
- Turn off your monetization
- Hide your videos from search
- Remove your channel from the Partner Program
So, make sure your videos are original and not just copied or auto-made.
How to Keep Your Channel Safe
Want to stay on YouTube’s good side? Follow these simple tips:
- Review your old videos. Remove anything that might seem lazy or copied.
- Use your real voice or face when possible. Add personal thoughts.
- Write honest titles and descriptions that match your video content.
- Try different formats: Upload Shorts, long videos, or even go live.
- Check YouTube’s blog and updates often to stay informed.
Being safe on YouTube just means being real, creative, and honest with your content.
What Viewers and Advertisers Should Know
- For viewers: YouTube should feel more personal while offering less auto-generated spam.
- For brands: ad slots should be on content with human voice and creativity.
- For the platform: this may create quality and trust, for everyone involved.
Future of YouTube Content Quality
YouTube is clearly moving toward a world where quality comes first, and that isnt changing anytime soon. AIs still in the picture, but videos will only shine when humans steer the story. So, expect YouTube to keep fine-tuning what it calls real and genuine, and those rules may soon cover Shorts, live streams, and community posts, too. Creators should double down on fresh ideas, spend time polishing their storytelling, and work on a voice that feels unmistakably theirs. The days of bland, factory-made uploads rolling out on repeat are almost over. In their place, well see bolder, more personal work-and the rewards for that effort should follow.
FAQs
Can I use AI in my videos now?
Yes, you can. Just be sure to pepper in your own voice, ideas, or edits so it feels personal.
Can I monetize with a robotic voice?
Maybe, but it is risky. If your entire video is just a robot reading text, it is possible that YouTube won’t allow it.
What is “transformative” content?
It basically means you are taking something and making it your own. Such as react, edit and provide commentary.
Are Shorts affected too?
At this moment Shorts is not included in this rule but, it may be changing soon.
Can I ask YouTube to review my channel again?
Yes. If your channel is demonetized, you can appeal and ask YouTube to take another look at your channel.