By: Nick Gambino
On the 20th anniversary of YouTube, the video streaming behemoth is looking toward the future. That future is most definitely AI.
YouTube Doubles Down on AI
New AI tools were introduced by the company at their annual Made on YouTube event last week. They are doing everything they can to assure us that these tools are meant to aid human creators. Their intention is not to replace them.
“These are tools and really just that,” Neal Mohan, the CEO of YouTube said at the Made on YouTube event. “Make no mistake – no studio, network, tech company or AI tool will own the future of entertainment.”
Creator-First Approach
In the spirit of this “creator first” message, they made sure to highlight how much has been paid out in recent years as part of their monetization program. From 2021 to 2025, YouTube has paid over $100 billion to creators. They hope AI can boost those numbers over the next handful of years. New AI-powered monetization features will help users find the best time to drop a product tag in a video, amongst other things.
Veo 3 Fast: AI Video Generation
A large part of helping creators make more content is the introduction of a light-on-its-feet version of Veo 3. In fact, creators now use the powerful video generation model to make quick Shorts and other clips. With this tool, they create content using a simple text prompt. As a result, YouTube promises Veo 3 Fast will assist content makers in realizing more impressive content in an instant—all from their phone. Currently, this tool is available in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Looking ahead, they plan to expand it further in the near future.
AI Editing Tools
YouTube content makers are also getting AI help on the editing side of things. To start, simply add your raw footage, and Edit with AI will put together a rough assembly. From there, it includes transitions, music, and even a voiceover. After that, you can work it over and mold it into your final edit.
Likeness Detection Expansion
Going even further on the “creators matter” campaign, the company is also expanding its likeness detection tech. Previously, this tool had only been available to a limited number of creators, but now it is going to be available in an open beta. Through this expansion, creators will be able to detect unauthorized usage of their likeness anywhere on YouTube. Once that happens, they can then flag it for removal.
Staying Competitive in the AI Race
YouTube refuses to be left behind in the AI race. With nearly 30 new AI features, they’ve secured a fighting chance.
