The way people experience reality is changing. More and more, what reaches us is already passing through algorithms shaped and smoothed by artificial intelligence before we can see.
Currently, some YouTube creators say the platform is applying these AI filters and tools to content without knowledge or consent.
Rick Beat notices subtle changes
In an interview with the BBC, Music YouTuber Rick Beato said he's beginning to notice most of the changes in his videos. His face and hair looked as if a filter had been applied, and he said it looked like it was wearing makeup. Beato, who uploaded around 2,000 videos to the channel, said the changes were shown in the latest uploads.
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AI will adjust without consent
YouTube quietly used AI to adjust the video without telling the creator. The changes are subtle, but some creators say the content gives it an unnatural and AI-maid feel.
The Reddit thread first highlighted the changes. Some users found that VHS style videos were automatically changed by AI when uploaded, with an additional effect that completely changed the original appearance, and there was no way to disable the feature.
YouTube responds
After multiple complaints and a recent post on YouTube's liaison about X's Rene Ritchie, the company confirmed it is a test feature to enhance the clarity of the video, as well as smartphone tools such as Unblur and Denoise. Richie said he doesn't use generator AI or upscaling.
“YouTube is always working on how to deliver the best possible video quality and experience, and we will continue to take into account creator and audience feedback as we iterate and improve on these features,” Ritchie said.
He revealed his comments Following the terminology of subsequent posts on the experiment, its feedback YouTube was deceptive.
According to Richie, genai usually refers to new technologies such as large language models and transformers. Upscaling is the process of enhancing low-resolution videos such as 480p to improve quality at high resolutions such as 1080p.
That's not what's going on here. Instead, YouTube uses the same type of machine learning found on smartphone cameras such as calculated photos to enhance the video without changing the resolution.
Creators express concern
Creator Rhett Shull posted a video on YouTube raising concerns that he has never agreed to use AI to change content. His video has received over 700,000 views. Shull said the unannounced changes will undermine the trust and partnerships creators have in the platform.
“Replacing or enhancing my work with some AI upscaling systems will not only erode trust with the audience, but also erode my trust in YouTube,” he said.
How YouTube uses AI across platforms
YouTube relies on AI in a variety of ways that go beyond video recommendations. The platform uses machine learning to help mitigate content and flags videos that may violate policy before human reviews.
AI also helps you place your ads and helps you decide when and where to continue to attract audiences while limiting interruptions.
AI Optimism Division: Experts vs. Public
AI experts are far more positive about the impact of technology than the public. In a Pew survey, more than half of experts say AI will have a positive impact on the US over the next 20 years, only 17% of adults.
Regarding personal impact, 76% of experts expect AI to benefit them. This is 24% of adults. When it comes to employment, 73% of experts believe it has a positive effect compared to the average 23%.
Cole Lauterbach (Managing Editor),
Joey Nunez (video editor),
Drew Pittok (digital producer)
I contributed to this report.
