- Status
- Verified
- Sources
- 2 of 2 quoted
- Last verified
- 2026-10-17
YouTube
AI is allowed, but mass-produced, generic AI content cannot be monetized, and realistic AI-generated or altered content must be disclosed at upload.
Do you have to disclose AI?
Required for realistic AI-generated or meaningfully altered content (the 'AI use' setting in YouTube Studio).
The rules
- Mass-produced, template-like AI content is not eligible for monetization (inauthentic content policy).
- Using AI to help tell an original story or visualise your own character is given as an acceptable example.
- Realistic AI-generated or altered content must be disclosed during upload; non-realistic or minor edits don't need it.
Common questions
Only songs made on Suno Pro or Premier can be used commercially.
Udio's terms bar downloading outputs and posting them on user-generated-content platforms such as YouTube.
ElevenLabs free users may only use the service non-commercially; paid plans allow commercial use.
HeyGen's Free plan only allows personal, non-commercial and evaluation use; Creator, Pro and Business users own their output.
Runway does not claim ownership of outputs or restrict commercial use.
AIVA's Limited Commercial License (Standard plan) allows monetizing on YouTube, Twitch, TikTok and Instagram; the Non-Commercial License does not.
Only voice overs made in Speechify Voice Over Studio may be used commercially; Speechify's other services are for personal, non-commercial use.
Yes if they're original: YouTube won't monetize mass-produced, template-like AI content, and you must disclose realistic AI-generated or altered content when you upload.
In their words
“AI-generated content made with generic or unoriginal templates giving the impression of mass production without adding the creator’s original, authentic insights or perspective”
“Content that expresses your unique creative voice, like using AI to visualize a unique character and narrative you invented”
“We require creators to disclose AI-generated or altered content that seems realistic. Creators can make this disclosure during the upload process.”
“Realistic AI content and meaningful changes require disclosure, while non-realistic or minor edits don’t.”
Sources
- YouTube channel monetization policies Verified
- Disclosing use of GenAI content Verified
Spot an error or a change in these rules? Report it.