YouTube has announced that it will soon demonetize certain channels that are marketed as being made for children if they create content that encourages or encourages bad behavior or commercialism. YouTube had warned that this type of content would not be allowed in its YouTube Kids app. However, YouTube will enforce new monetization policies starting next month, which could impact creator eligibility for the YouTube Partner Program or their removal.
YouTube announced in August that it would increase protections for minors. Some updates would address future regulations while others would go beyond what is required by law. YouTube stated that it would make videos private for users aged 13-17, which would allow minors to take a break, remind them of their bedtimes, and stop using interests data to target teens and children with ads.
One of the changes was a warning for creators who make content specifically aimed at children. The company had plans to remove commercial content from its YouTube Kids app, which is aimed at younger kids.
A number of consumer advocacy organizations had been pressing YouTube and regulators to stop these videos. They claimed that they blurred the line between advertising and content. They also argued that some creators were not disclosing brand relationships behind the scenes, which was fueling this type of content production.
YouTube's biggest creators are Ryan Kaji, multimillionaire and founder of Ryan ToysReview (now Ryans World), who focuses heavily on toy unboxings and consumerism.
YouTube announced in August that YouTube Kids would be removing content that encouraged viewers to purchase products and content that focused on excessive accumulation or consumption. YouTube also warned that channels that target younger audiences or those classified as made for children could face demonization if they produce low-quality content.
Content that encourages bad behavior or attitudes, such as bullying, dishonesty, disrespect for others, and unhealthy eating habits, is prohibited. The latter was a problem in recent years, as Peppa Pig characters were shown in situations that weren't child-friendly.
YouTube has announced that it will enforce additional monetization policies starting in November with these quality principles for channels that are made for children or create content for children.
These principles may apply to creators who create low-quality content. They could be banned from the YouTube Partner Program or removed. Videos that fall within the low-quality guidelines may not receive any advertising. YouTube initially will not advertise videos encouraging negative behavior. YouTube said that other videos with a strong focus in low-quality content for children will be reviewed.
These were factors that helped YouTube Kids determine if the content was appropriate and informed the overall YouTube algorithm. Monetization changes are a more powerful tool to influence the content creators.
YouTube has stated that creators whose channels may be affected by the monetization changes, will receive an email prior to the changes taking effect. Advertisers may also be warned that even channels not immediately affected but which produce low-quality children's content, could receive a yellow icon. The company did not say how many channels might be affected by its new policy.
YouTube will continue to recommend content that is consistent with high-quality principles. This content will also be included in the YouTube Kids app.
High-quality principles are content that encourages children to be good people, content that encourages learning, curiosity, creativity, and imagination, content that addresses real-world problems, content that promotes diversity and equity, and content that promotes inclusion.
This announcement comes on the heels a greater examination of the role tech companies play in the well-being and safety of minors who use their services. Already, Google, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have all announced updates to their services that put more emphasis on privacy and security for younger users. YouTube has also introduced new parental controls. Snap and TikTok will also have to appear before Congress this week.
YouTube claims it will continue to update and reevaluate its principles moving forward.
