YouTube changes Shorts algorithm to favour original videos

YouTube is changing how content is recommended on Shorts, with channels that mainly re-upload other creators’ videos facing reduced visibility on the platform.

The video-sharing platform said the update is aimed at giving original creators a better opportunity to reach viewers, while improving the quality of content recommended through Shorts.

In a statement, YouTube said its recommendation systems assess billions of signals, including users’ watch history, interests and engagement, to determine which videos are most relevant to them.

“To improve the Shorts experience for everyone, we’re updating our recommendation systems to further prioritize original content and reduce the reach of content re-uploaded from other creators without adding anything of your own,” the company said.

YouTube said channels that are primarily focused on aggregating or re-uploading content without making significant changes could see a decline in distribution.

“Channels identified as primarily aggregating or re-uploading other creators’ videos without significant changes will likely see less distribution within the Shorts feed,” it said.

The move could particularly affect “clipper” channels, which have become increasingly common on YouTube and other social media platforms.

Such accounts often take portions of podcasts, interviews, livestreams and other long-form videos and turn them into short clips for their own audiences.

YouTube, however, said creators can still use clips from other people’s videos provided they add meaningful original elements.

“If you use clips from another creator, make sure you’re adding real value through your own original commentary, unique edits, or storytelling,” the platform said.

The company also warned creators against relying on simple modifications to make reused material appear different.

“Rather than making minor technical edits or template-based changes simply to alter a video, focus on bringing your own voice, storytelling, or distinct point of view to the conversation,” YouTube said.

The update does not amount to a ban on clipping content from other creators. Instead, it changes how such videos are treated by the Shorts recommendation system.

YouTube said the move is aligned with its existing policies and is intended to ensure that creators producing original content have a stronger opportunity to grow.

“This update to our recommendation systems delivers a better experience for viewers while ensuring creators publishing original content have the best chance to grow and succeed,” the company said.

The changes could force creators who rely heavily on re-uploaded content to rethink their Shorts strategies by adding more commentary, storytelling and original creative input to videos featuring material from others.