YouTube New Rules: YouTube Bans Repetitive & Copied Videos from Monetisation, Only Original Content Will Earn

Big changes are coming to YouTube's monetisation rules, and creators relying heavily on templates, automation, or AI-generated videos may soon find themselves in hot water. After July 15, it will become a little difficult to earn from YouTube.

What Are YouTube's New Rules To Monetise Content?

Starting July 15, 2025, YouTube will no longer allow monetisation for channels that repeatedly upload the same videos or post content copied from others. YouTube will roll out a significant update to its YouTube Partner Program (YPP) policy in a move aimed at curbing what it describes as "mass-produced" and "inauthentic" content.

The platform, long known for rewarding originality and creativity, is now taking a stronger stance against repetitive, low-effort uploads that clutter the site-many of which are created using AI tools or recycled content from other creators.

"YouTube is updating our guidelines to better identify mass-produced and repetitious content," the company said in an official announcement. "This update better reflects what 'inauthentic' content looks like today."

Which Types of Videos Will No Longer Earn Money on YouTube?

• Originality will be key. Uploading someone else's content with only minor changes will no longer be permitted. All videos must be newly created. Even when using existing material, it must be significantly transformed before posting.
• Repeated uploads of the same video will be banned. You can no longer upload the same content multiple times to try and earn money.
• Template-based videos and those using robotic voices will also be disqualified from monetisation.
• Low-effort videos created solely for the purpose of making money-which lack entertainment value or useful information-will not be eligible. Whether a video is educational or entertaining, it must offer something new and meaningful.

Although YouTube has not directly mentioned AI in the updated rules, it is widely believed that AI-generated content without human involvement-especially videos with auto-generated voices-may also be affected by these new policies.

What Kind of Content Will Be Prioritised?

Starting July 15, YouTube will focus more on content that is fresh, original, and engaging. To qualify for monetisation, videos must be newly created and not recycled from existing content. They should provide informative or educational value, be creatively made, and hold the viewer's attention. Only content that is unique, valuable, and contributes positively to the platform will be eligible for monetisation under the updated rules.

What Did Old Rules Say?

Under YouTube's previous monetisation policy, creators were required to have at least 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours within the past 12 months to qualify for the YouTube Partner Program. Alternatively, creators posting Shorts needed to achieve 10 million views within the last 90 days. Once these requirements were met, channels could start earning money from their content.

Once these criteria were met, the channel became eligible for monetisation. Under the old rules, it was common for creators to re-upload old videos, use copy-pasted material, and even rely on AI tools-with little human input.

But What Exactly Is "Inauthentic"? How YouTube's New Policy Will Affect Mass YouTubers?

While YouTube has not provided precise definitions for terms like mass-produced, repetitious or inauthentic, industry insiders suggest the update is likely targeting videos created using set templates, automated editing tools and AI-generated scripts, voices, or avatars. Think faceless gaming channels churning out gameplay footage with robotic narration or compilations that repurpose others' original videos with minimal effort or commentary.

This shift could have far-reaching implications, particularly for creators who rely on AI tools to quickly generate content in bulk. Gaming channels, tutorial videos, and voiceover-driven explainer content could all come under greater scrutiny.

What About Virtual YouTubers?

One group that might be affected by these new rules is virtual YouTubers, or "VTubers." They use animated avatars instead of showing their real faces on camera. Many VTubers have built large audiences and even earned millions.However, unlike fully AI-generated channels, VTubers often produce original content, including voiceovers and live commentary, making them a possible exception-at least for now.

Still, the new rules are not very clear, which creates some confusion. Until the guidelines start on 15 July, it's hard to say whether VTuber-style content will be allowed or restricted under YouTube's focus on original and real content.