YouTube altered or synthetic content label
Direct answer
YouTube asks creators to disclose realistic content that AI generated or meaningfully altered. Its documented Studio upload flow places the AI use question under Attributes. Select Yes when the final video meets that test, then verify the viewer-facing label, which YouTube can place in the description or player. The tracked help page does not establish equivalent controls for every API or scheduler workflow.
Applies when
- A real person appears to say or do something they did not.
- Realistic scenes or events are generated or altered.
- Synthetic voice or face can appear authentic.
Doesn't apply when
- Clearly unrealistic content and minor production assistance are treated differently in YouTube's examples.
Worked decision
Example
Real footage with a generic synthetic narrator
Human review required
Decide whether the final audio makes a realistic, meaningful alteration; a generated voice alone is not the same as impersonating a real person.
Next steps
Required action
- Review Attributes → AI use in YouTube Studio's documented upload flow.
- Select Yes if the final video is realistic and generated or meaningfully altered; otherwise select No.
- Verify label placement after publishing, including for scheduled or API-assisted workflows.
Publishing layer
Platform differences
Law, platform and client layers
EU AI Act Article 50(4) requires deployers to disclose realistic AI-generated or manipulated image, audio and video resembling real persons, objects, places or events. Use the platform’s native label and keep your own evidence record.
Evidence
Source
Freshness and accountability
Last verified
Applies from 2026-08-02 · Last reviewed 2026-09-23 · Current
Run this exact scenario
Relevant content, AI-use and platform inputs are preselected. Confirm the remaining facts before relying on the result.
Who is affected
- YouTube creators and brand channels.
- Video agencies and upload operators.
- Teams publishing through an API or scheduler.
More scenarios
| Scenario | Outcome | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Generated footage of a real-looking disaster | Disclosure required | YouTube may apply a prominent label because the subject is sensitive. |
Practical marketing examples
- Altered face in an interview.
- Made-up event rendered as realistic news footage.
Related pages
Disclara separates binding law, platform policy, client policy, technical provenance and recommended wording. Information on this page is not legal advice. See editorial policy.