YouTube, the world's largest video platform, said on the 27th (local time) that it will introduce a feature that automatically detects and labels videos generated by artificial intelligence (AI). Labels for AI-made content will also be placed in spots that are easy to notice.
YouTube said on its official blog that it is strengthening its AI labeling policy to enhance transparency around AI-generated content. Since 2024, creators posting videos have been asked to voluntarily disclose whether they used Generative AI, but going forward the system will automatically identify and label such use even if creators do not disclose it.
The placement of the AI label is also designed to make it stand out. For realistic, lifelike videos or content with a high proportion of AI generation, general videos will have the label placed just above the description box directly below the video. For short videos, or "Shorts," the label will be displayed as an overlay on the video. YouTube said it placed the label front and center so users can grasp the context of the content at a glance.
However, for animations and videos with partial AI edits, the AI label can be found in the description box below the video.
Creators who post YouTube videos may modify the visibility in YouTube Studio if they determine their content was misclassified as AI-generated.
However, content produced with YouTube's own AI tools, "Veo" or "Dream Screen," and content whose metadata content provenance (C2PA) indicates it is a fully AI-generated video will have the AI label permanently retained. C2PA is an industry-standard specification that digitally certifies a piece of content's source and production history.
YouTube emphasized that having an AI label does not affect the video recommendation algorithm or eligibility for revenue generation.