YouTube expands AI labeling, detection and new search features

YouTube announced several AI-driven changes to its platform. The service will automatically detect and label videos generated or altered with photorealistic artificial intelligence, displaying visible tags beneath the player and, for Shorts, as an on‑screen overlay. The labeling will not affect recommendation algorithms or monetisation.

In addition, YouTube introduced “Ask YouTube”, an AI‑powered search tool that scans the entire catalogue of videos and Shorts, extracts the most relevant segments and returns a concise text answer with embedded video clips and timestamps. The feature is currently being tested with Premium subscribers in the United States and is slated for a global free rollout.

YouTube also launched a personalised feed option that lets users create custom video streams by entering free‑form prompts (e.g., “10‑minute guided meditations”). The feed appears at the top of the home page and can be pinned for quick access. This function is presently limited to U.S. users on mobile and desktop, in English only.

These updates come as the platform prepares for the European Union’s AI Act, which will require large services to increase transparency for synthetic media.