YouTube's New Monetisation Rules Target AI-Generated Voices

YouTube is tightening the rules on how creators earn money, and this time, AI is at the centre of it.

Image via: Szabo Viktor on Unsplash

In a major update to its partner program, YouTube has begun demonetising videos that use synthetic or AI-generated voices without what it calls "authentic human presence". This means that if your content relies heavily on an AI narrator (using text-to-speech voices), your video may no longer be eligible for AD revenue.

What's Changing?

YouTube's updated policies make it clear: if your video feels too automated or lacks personality, it may lose monetisation. This includes:

• Text-to-speech narrations without added commentary or personal input

• AI-generated content that doesn't include a clear creative or editorial voice

• Repetitive or low-effort content designed purely to farm views or SEO clicks

Creators are now being asked to ensure that videos reflect genuine effort, personality and originality.

Why the changes?

The rise of AI tools has led to an explosion of faceless, mass-produced videos. Many of which are low-effort and offer little to no value to viewers. YouTube is pushing back against this trend to:

• Improve overall content quality

• Protect advertisers from appearing on "spammy" or misleading videos

• Prioritise creators who bring real insight, experience, or creativity

What This Means for Creators

If you've been using AI tools to help with content, you're not behind, but you'll need to be thoughtful. YouTube still allows:

• AI-assisted scripting or research

• Voiceovers that are original (even if recorded with basic equipment)

• Mixed-media content where AI is part of the workflow, but not the whole story

Videos that blend AI tools with your voice, your style, and your story will still be welcome

Note: Using tools like Adobe Podcast's Enhance Speech or voice filters to clean up your voice is perfectly fine.

How to Stay Monetised

Here are some quick tips to keep your channel safe:

• Use your voice, even if it's just a few lines

• Add personal commentary or insights

• Make your content feel intentional, not automated

Remember: You don't need studio-quality gear, just be you!

This isn't the end of AI in content creation. But it is a wake-up call: audiences (and platforms) want authenticity. And that means creators who show up with their own voice, literally and creatively.

Your voice doesn't have to be perfect, it just has to be yours :)