A recent study has revealed that over 20% of the videos recommended to new YouTube users are low-quality content generated by artificial intelligence. These mindless videos are termed as ‘AI slop.’
The survey conducted by video creation platform Kapwing reveals that the platform’s algorithm engages users with zero watch time through poor-quality automated videos. The study analyzed suggestions displayed to new accounts and found that approximately 20% of the recommended videos depend heavily on AI tools. They offer no value; the content focuses on engagement rather than creativity.
AI slop is the mass production of content using tools such as text-to-video conversion technology, synthetic voices, stock images, and reused scripts. These videos contain robotic voices, repeating images, and clickbait headlines.
While the content adheres to the platform’s rules, it undermines the integrity of suggestions for users, leading to increased clutter in their feeds.
The study also suggests that AI slop, along with a broader category of low-effort, addictive content commonly referred to as ‘brainrot’, makes up a significant percentage of recommendations on new accounts.
The suggestion algorithm uses engagement signals from users. However, new accounts lack a view history or preferences, forcing the system to rely on videos with high click and watch time. AI videos perform best in these domains since they are highly optimized for the recommendation system.
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YouTube previously stated that it restricts the monetization of AI-generated videos with repetitive or low-quality content. The company is still updating its policies. Nevertheless, research suggests that enforcement may struggle to keep pace with the rapid growth of automated content creation.
According to experts, the emergence of ‘AI slop’ could lead to skepticism toward online video-sharing services. This could, in turn, make it more difficult for new content producers to connect with their audience, especially when generative technologies are affordable.