AI-Generated Shorts Dominating YouTube – And Viewers Are Hooked

A Surge in Low-Quality, AI-Driven Content

Noticing a spike in AI-created, low-grade content on YouTube? You're not alone.

Recent findings reveal that AI-generated material, which is often deemed careless and subpar, accounts for more than one-fifth of YouTube Shorts. A full one-third of the Shorts are categorized as 'brainrot' — compulsive and nonsensical content frequently enhanced by AI.

Kapwing examined the top trending channels worldwide, identifying those utilizing AI. This involved leveraging social media analytics to gauge views, subscriber increases, and predicted annual earnings, thereby assessing these channels' reach.

Algorithm Influence on YouTube Content

Creating a fresh YouTube account, Kapwing scrutinized its exposure to AI content within the first 500 Shorts. It wasn’t long before such content emerged; 104 of these Shorts were AI-generated with poor quality, while 165 were categorized as 'brainrot'.

Countries like Spain, leading the consumption of AI content, showcase a significant audience with over 20 million subscribers following AI-centric channels. Egypt follows, with the U.S. also heavily engaged. The most popular channel identified is Bandar Apna Dost from India, boasting over 2 billion views and generating substantial revenue.

The Viewer Demand for AI Content

YouTube showcases content that resonates with viewers, thus these AI short videos must be gaining traction. For content creators, the low-cost nature of AI production is appealing, facilitating this increase in AI content. YouTube's promotion of these videos encourages more creators to join in.

While some platforms are beginning to label AI-derived content, the constant viewership and lack of consumer pushback mean the supply of AI slop is unlikely to diminish. So long as viewers continue to consume this type of content, its prevalence will persist.