More than 20% of videos shown to new YouTube users are ‘AI slop’, study finds
The rise of low-quality AI-generated content, often referred to as “AI slop,” is increasingly dominating social media platforms like YouTube, generating an estimated $117 million annually.
Research indicates that over 20% of the videos shown to new users on YouTube fall into this category, which is characterized by its lack of substance and focus on generating views rather than delivering meaningful content.
A study by Kapwing, surveying the world’s top YouTube channels, found that numerous channels dedicated solely to AI slop have collectively garnered more than 63 billion views and 221 million subscribers.
The phenomenon has a global reach, with channels attracting massive followings in various countries, including 20 million in Spain and 18 million in Egypt.
Popular examples include “Bandar Apna Dost,” a channel from India featuring absurd animations, and “Pouty Frenchie,” which targets children with whimsical stories. Analysts note that the appeal of these channels often lies in their outlandish themes and accessibility, despite their simplistic nature.
A growing community of creators, particularly from middle-income countries, is leveraging AI tools to produce such content, navigating a landscape filled with both potential and challenges.
