Whats Changing on YouTube from July 15, 2025?

YouTube is cracking down on repetitive, copied, and AI-generated videos. Starting July 15, creators who upload recycled or low-effort content will no longer be eligible for monetisation under the YouTube Partner Program (YPP).

YouTube is introducing these changes to promote authentic, original, and useful content. Channels relying on templates, robotic narration, or AI-driven mass production may soon see their ad revenue disappear.

Why Is YouTube Updating Its Monetisation Rules?

Heres the problem: the platform is being flooded with mass-produced videosmany using text-to-speech tools, AI avatars, or recycled clips. These videos often provide little value and push original creators down the algorithm.

According to YouTube:

This update better reflects what 'inauthentic' content looks like today.

So the new policy is about cleaning up the clutter and rewarding creativity.

What Kind of Content Will Be Disqualified from Monetisation?

Lets break down exactly what types of videos are at risk.

Key takeaway: Originality matters more than ever. Even if you're using existing footage or ideas, they must be significantly transformed to qualify.

What Counts as Significant Transformation?

You can still repurpose or react to existing contentbut only if you truly add value.

Examples of Allowed Content:

• Reaction videos that add commentary and personality.
  
  

• Video essays that analyse or explain an existing topic using multiple sources.
  
  

• Remix-style compilations with editing, narration, and insights.
  
  

Not Allowed:

• Uploading someone else's video with a different intro.
  
  

• Swapping background music but keeping everything else the same.
  
  

• Generating faceless, robotic scripts with no personal touch or commentary.
  
  

What Does This Mean for AI-Created Content?

While YouTube hasnt explicitly banned AI, its clear that AI-generated content without human involvement is in trouble.

High-risk AI content includes:

• Videos with only AI voiceovers and no edits.
  
  

• Videos generated by automation tools that flood the platform with quantity over quality.
  
  

• Channels using AI scripts without review or originality.
  
  

Safer AI use cases:

• Using AI for scripting ideas, but adding human editing and narration.
  
  

• AI-assisted tools for transitions, subtitles, or thumbnails.
  
  

• Using AI to enhance your workflow, not replace your creativity.
  
  

Expert tip: Treat AI as an assistant, not the creator.

Who Will Be Most Affected by These Changes?

This policy shift will hit:

• Faceless YouTube automation channels
  
  

• Stock footage video farms
  
  

• Reupload channels
  
  

• AI video creators using zero personal input
  
  

If youve been relying on automation or mass production, nows the time to rethink your strategy.

Real-World Example: Channel That Lost Monetisation

Case Study: A channel called RelaxVibes Loop uploaded ambient music with static visuals and text overlays. It reused similar content daily with minimal change.

After YouTube's new detection system flagged it, the channel received:

• A warning notice from YouTube
  
  

• Ad revenue paused
  
  

• Required manual review to reapply for YPP
  
  

The creator had to:

• Add voiceovers
  
  

• Create custom visuals
  
  

• Reduce repetitive uploads
  
  

After 45 days, they were reapproved.

Lesson: Putting in real effort makes a big difference.

What Kind of Content Will YouTube Prioritise Now?

YouTube wants videos that:

• Are fresh and original
  
  

• Include a human touch (narration, presence, insights)
  
  

• Add entertainment or educational value
  
  

• Offer new perspectives, creativity, or expertise
  
  

Examples of Monetisable Content in 2025:

• Personal storytelling or vlogging
  
  

• Tutorials or explainer videos
  
  

• Educational content with strong visuals and narration
  
  

• DIY, travel, finance, or opinion-based videos
  
  

• Creative shorts with original visuals and voiceovers
  
  

Best Practices for Creators After July 15

To stay safe and monetised on YouTube, follow these updated tips:

Content Dos:

•  Make every video unique and personal
  
  

•  Use your own voice, face, or commentary
  
  

• Transform existing materials with editing or analysis
  
  

• Focus on quality over quantity
  
  

• Add visual and informational value in every upload
  
  

Content Donts:

• Avoid uploading repeated or identical videos
  
  

• Dont rely on AI voices or templates without editing
  
  

• Stay away from spammy or engagement-farming tactics
  
  

•  Dont post videos that look auto-generated
  
  

Tools to Help You Stay Compliant

Here are a few helpful tools for creators who want to stay within YouTubes new rules:

Tool	Use
Descript	Add human voiceovers and edit audio fast
Pictory	Turn scripts into videos with narration
Grammarly	Clean up AI-generated scripts
Canva / Adobe Express	Design original thumbnails and visuals
YouTube Studio Editor	Trim, clip, and improve reused content

Pro tip: Always review your video as if you were YouTubes content reviewerdoes it feel real, unique, and useful?

Common Questions Answered

Will my old videos be demonetised too?

If they're considered repetitive or copied, yes, they may lose monetisation. YouTube could review past uploads if your channel has a pattern of low-effort content.

Can I still use stock footage?

Yesbut only if you add significant narration, context, or editing. Simply stitching clips together wont work.

Is every AI video banned now?

No. You can still use AI toolsbut only when you're clearly adding human creativity on top of them.

What if Ive already applied to YPP?

New applicants will be reviewed under the updated policy. If your channel doesn't meet originality standards, you wont get accepted.

What Should Creators Do Next?

• Review your current content for repetitive patterns
  
  

• Update your production process to include personal input
  
  

• Start planning content that focuses on originality and user value
  
  

• Use AI wisely, not lazily
  
  

YouTube is doubling down on quality. And thats a good thingfor real creators.

Final Takeaway

The July 2025 YouTube monetisation update is a wake-up call: Real creators will thrive. Shortcut-takers wont.

If you focus on authentic storytelling, original ideas, and user value, youre not just safeyoure in a stronger position to grow.