YouTube CEO Neal Mohan announced that creators will soon be able to make AI-powered video Shorts using their own likeness.
In his annual letter, Mohan explained that this year, creators can generate Shorts with their own likeness, produce games from text prompts, and experiment with music. He emphasized that AI will act as a “tool for expression, not a replacement” for human creators.
Shorts remain one of YouTube’s most popular formats, averaging 200 billion daily views. The platform continues to invest in Shorts to maintain this high engagement. The new features will join existing AI tools, including AI clips, AI stickers, and AI auto-dubbing.
Mohan also highlighted that YouTube will give creators more control over how their own likeness is used in AI-generated content. This ensures that no one can create AI videos featuring a creator’s face or voice without permission.
Last October, YouTube introduced likeness-detection technology for eligible creators. This tool helps identify unauthorized AI-generated content featuring their own likeness. Creators can then request the removal of such content to protect their identity.
The company is addressing the issue of low-quality AI content, or “AI slop,” which can flood the platform. Mohan said YouTube is building on existing systems to reduce spam, clickbait, and repetitive AI videos.
“Over the past 20 years, we’ve learned not to impose preconceived notions on the creator ecosystem,” Mohan said. He added that trends like ASMR and gaming videos became mainstream through creator freedom.
By introducing AI tools for Shorts using creators’ own likeness, YouTube aims to balance innovation with content quality. The platform hopes these tools will expand creative possibilities while protecting creators’ rights and maintaining a positive viewing experience.
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