YouTube is adjusting Shorts recommendations to favor original uploads and limit "clipper" accounts that repost other creators' content without adding anything. The company said the updated algorithms will prioritize original material and reduce distribution of re-uploaded content.
The platform didn't specify how the system will detect such posts, but said channels that mostly aggregate existing content without meaningful changes will likely see less reach in the Shorts feed. YouTube suggests clippers should bring their own voice through commentary, unique edits, or storytelling.
A lingering question is whether creators who clip their own long-form videos for Shorts will also be deprioritized. That would be a downside for longer-form creators hoping to gain Shorts views, and YouTube hasn't clarified. The change follows other recent YouTube updates, including custom feeds, GIF comments, and an upcoming auto-dubbing tool.