YouTube introduces new tools to identify AI-generated content

YouTube is rolling out new features designed to help users identify videos and other content created using artificial intelligence, as distinguishing between real and AI-generated media becomes increasingly difficult online.

In a blog post, YouTube said it will introduce automated AI disclosure labels alongside its existing policy requiring creators to disclose the use of AI in their content. The platform will also deploy new detection tools capable of identifying significant use of realistic AI-generated elements in videos.

Under the updated system, videos that lack the required disclosure may automatically receive an AI-generated content label from YouTube. Creators will, however, be able to appeal or correct labels through YouTube Studio if they believe they have been applied incorrectly.

The company said some labels will be permanent and cannot be removed. These include content created using YouTube’s own generative AI tools and videos carrying C2PA metadata, which indicates that a video was wholly or substantially generated with AI technology.

YouTube said users place a high value on transparency regarding AI-generated content, and the new measures are intended to balance transparency with creators' control over their work.

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The platform is also changing where AI labels appear. For long-form videos, labels will be displayed below the video player, while on YouTube Shorts they will appear as visible on-screen overlays during playback.

The new system is scheduled to begin rolling out this month.