If you’re confused about what’s happening with YouTube monetisation rules in 2025 — you’re not alone. YouTube just made some major changes that every creator needs to understand. Whether you’re using AI to help make videos or you’re a teen going live on your channel, these updates could affect your income, your reach, or even your access to livestream features. Let’s break it all down — with no fluff, no panic — just the truth.
YouTube Monetisation Rules 2025: What No One’s Telling You
Starting July 15, 2025, YouTube is enforcing stricter rules under its monetisation policy. The biggest target? So-called “AI slop” — content that feels lazy, repetitive, and mass-produced using AI tools.
And if you’re under 16 and love livestreaming? Get ready for some major changes starting July 22, 2025.
What YouTube Means by “AI Slop” 🤖
YouTube isn’t banning AI altogether. But if your video looks like it was made in 10 minutes using stock footage, robotic voiceovers, and zero originality — it’s at risk.
Here’s what YouTube considers low-effort AI content:
- Slideshows with auto-generated narration
- Top 10 lists using only stock clips
- Reused footage or templated visuals with minimal changes
- Content with little to no human voice, story, or editing
The platform now uses improved detection systems to catch such content — and demonetise it.
If it wouldn’t hold your attention for 30 seconds, chances are it won’t earn anymore.
“You can use AI. But if your video feels soulless, don’t expect to get paid.”
Is AI Still Allowed Under YouTube Monetisation Rules 2025?
Nope. In fact, YouTube has clarified that AI can be part of the process — as long as the final output reflects human effort and value.
You’re totally safe if you’re:
- Writing your own scripts
- Adding commentary, opinions, or storytelling
- Editing creatively
- Using AI as a tool, not a crutch
If it feels like you made it, YouTube’s likely to keep monetising it.
New Rule for Teens: No Solo Livestreams
From July 22, 2025, creators aged 13 to 15 can’t livestream alone.
To go live, they now need:
- An adult co-host visibly present
- OR a verified adult manager added to the channel
Without this, YouTube may:
- Disable livestreaming
- Turn off live chat
- Flag the account for violation
This is part of YouTube’s push to make the platform safer for younger users.
Why YouTube Introduced Monetisation Rules 2025
YouTube’s new monetisation rules in 2025 didn’t just drop out of nowhere. They’re a response to two major shifts shaking the platform:
1. Too Much AI-Generated Junk
Creators were flooding YouTube with recycled, auto-narrated, low-effort videos. Viewers were complaining. Engagement dropped. YouTube needed to clean house — and reward creators actually putting in work.
2. Teen Safety Concerns
Younger creators (13–15) were going live unsupervised, sometimes exposing themselves to risky comments or online predators. To protect them and stay compliant with child safety regulations globally, YouTube introduced adult supervision requirements.
These changes are about protecting the platform, raising the quality bar, and creating a safer, more meaningful experience for everyone.
What Creators Should Do Now — Adapting to YouTube Monetisation Rules 2025
These updates might feel overwhelming at first — but they’re actually a wake-up call to build better, smarter content.
If you’re a creator, here’s what you need to do:
- Audit your videos: Go through your recent uploads with a critical eye. Does the video feel too generic? Is it mostly stock footage, repetitive visuals, or auto-generated scripts? If it lacks your personality or creativity, flag it for improvement. YouTube is rewarding uniqueness — not repetition.
- Re-edit risky content: Don’t delete it — fix it. Add your voice to explain why the content matters. Inject your perspective or a personal story. Use b-roll creatively. Even one human touch — like a quick webcam intro — can shift your video from robotic to relatable.
- If you’re a teen: Don’t let the new livestream rule catch you off guard. Make sure an adult is added as a co-host or as your official channel manager. It’s not just about following rules — it’s about building trust with your audience and YouTube itself.
- Plan for quality-first content: From scripting to editing, focus on delivering value. Teach something new. Make your viewer feel something. Answer a question better than anyone else. That’s what will keep your monetisation — and audience — intact.
FAQs — Real Questions from Real Creators
Q1: Can I still use AI tools like ChatGPT or Pictory?
A: Yes, but here’s the deal — you have to add value. If you’re just pasting AI scripts and uploading them without editing or adding your voice, YouTube will likely demonetise that content. The final product should clearly show your creative input, personality, and effort.
Q2: What if I already have old AI-heavy videos?
A: YouTube isn’t going to delete them, but it might demonetise them or reduce visibility in recommendations. It’s smart to review those videos, check performance, and if necessary, rework them with voiceovers, commentary, or updated visuals to make them feel more human.
Q3: I’m 14 and stream games. What do I do now?
A: You need to take action before July 22. Either have a verified adult co-host present on the livestream, or assign a parent/guardian as the official channel manager. If not, your livestream access might be limited or disabled completely.
Q4: How will YouTube detect low-effort or AI-generated content?
A: YouTube is now using machine learning and content pattern analysis to flag videos that seem repetitive, templated, or synthetic. Even if your video passes the algorithm, manual reviewers can step in. That’s why it’s important to include clear signals of human effort — voiceovers, edits, reactions, opinions.
Q5: Can teen creators still earn from YouTube Shorts or Community posts?
A: Yes, the livestreaming restriction doesn’t affect Shorts, Community tab, or regular uploads. Teens can still earn and engage — they just can’t go live solo. But even in non-live content, YouTube expects the same safety and content quality standards.
Final Thoughts — YouTube’s New Era Needs Real Creators
Let’s face it — 2025 is not business as usual on YouTube. The days of quick-win content and silent AI slideshows are fading. But for creators who love the craft, this is a win.
If you can show effort, originality, and care — YouTube’s algorithms (and viewers) will reward you. Whether you’re 15 or 50, whether you’re scripting with ChatGPT or editing on CapCut — what matters now is the human behind the upload.
Call to Action — Let’s Adapt, Together 🙌
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. These changes are shaking up how we create on YouTube. But it doesn’t have to be scary.
Need help adjusting? I can send you:
- A video audit checklist
- Livestream safety setup for teen creators
- Content templates for human-first storytelling
Just reply or drop your email. Let’s keep growing — the smart (and honest) way.
