As generative AI tools become more available, YouTube is grappling with an influx of low-effort, automated videos known as “AI slop.” This is content that is mass-produced solely to take advantage of the platform's recommendation system for views and ad revenue. A recent investigation by video editing platform Kapwing reveals that these mindless clips aren't just proliferating. These are actively promoted to new users and make up a surprising portion of our initial recommendations.
Dangerous exposure of new accounts
Kapwing researchers simulated a fresh user experience by creating a new YouTube account and scrolling through the first 500 recommended short videos. The results were grim. 104 videos (21%) These were identified as pure AI slop, but an additional category of “brain-spinners” was occupied, which included AI slop and other meaningless and low-quality content designed to get attention. 165 videos (33%).
This means that more than a third of feeds for inexperienced viewers consist of obsessive and often surreal material that prioritizes engagement metrics over content.
The methodology involved manual classification and focused on telltale signs such as unnatural animations, repetitive formats, and unoriginal scripted narratives.
For new users with no viewing history, YouTube's algorithm defaults to globally trending content. And right now, AI Slop is performing extremely well on these metrics, creating a self-reinforcing cycle.
Profitable underground industry
Kapwing analyzed and identified the top 100 trending channels in each country (15,000 channels in total). 278 is completely dedicated to AI slops. Collectively, these channels Over 63 billion views and 221 million subscribersthe estimated annual advertising revenue reaches $117 million.
India is leading the way Bandar Apna Dostfeaturing the bizarre adventures of an anthropomorphic ape and a Hulk-like character, including fighting demons and flying a tomato helicopter. 2.07 billion to 2.4 billion views and potentially profitable $4.25 million annually.
Korean 3 minutes of wisdom – Show realistic scenes of cute pets defeating wild animals – Show clock 2.02 billion views and around 4 million dollars In terms of profits. Spanish language channel based in the US Quentos Facinantes The subscriber record for (Dragon Ball themed story) is as follows. 5.95 million to 6.65 million.
Global consumption patterns highlight regional hotspots.
- South Korea**Top view of 8.45 billion Across the trending slop channel.
- Pakistan** Follow at 5.34 billion.
- US** in 3.39 billionhas approximately 15 million subscribers.
- Spain** Estimated number of subscribers (20.22 million people together).
Other notable ones include Singapore's pouting french man (French Bulldog in the Candy Forest, approximately 2 billion views, approximately $4 million in revenue) and religious-themed channels such as: Imperio de Jesus.
The vicious cycle of the “dead internet”
This phenomenon exemplifies the “dead internet” theory. When AI slops produce high watch time and retention rates, whether through pure curiosity, bots, or algorithmic testing, YouTube's system rewards it with the highest rankings.
Low production costs (almost zero for tools like Sora and Veo) and minimal human input create strong financial incentives and create communities on Telegram and Discord that share templates, scripts, and monetization hacks.
Despite YouTube's policies against “inauthentic” and mass-produced content, enforcement has been slow. Although the platform has shut down some egregious offenders (such as the fake movie trailer channel in late 2025), the decline continues. Previous analysis by the Guardian found that almost 10% of the fastest growing channels are AI-only.
Critics warn of broader implications. These are the perpetuation of low standards for young audiences, the exploitation of the illusion of truth (repeated claims give the impression of authenticity), and the erosion of trust in online media.
As Kapwing points out, this proliferation is indicative of “information starvation,” where noise overwhelms quality and the value of verified information sources increases.
While YouTube continues to focus on “high-quality content, no matter how it's created,” data suggests that algorithms optimized for engagement are inadvertently driving multi-million dollar low-revenue economies. For new users stepping onto the platform, the first impression becomes increasingly artificial, addictive, and empty. As AI video tools evolve, this flood shows no signs of slowing down unless there are significant policy changes.
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