YouTube's policy requiring disclosure for AI-altered photorealistic content has significant gaps. It mandates disclosure for AI-generated music but not for fantastical, non-photorealistic AI creations. The policy exempts AI use for "idea generation," "production assistance," and even cloning creators' voices.

This leads to scenarios where entirely AI-generated videos might not require disclosure, while AI-crafted music accompanying them does. Science YouTuber Hank Green recently apologized for over-reliance on AI as a research aid, admitting it may have detracted from his work by limiting his freedom to explore topics independently. He realized that the efficiency gained from AI had obscured his own creative process and acknowledged that "making more things does not make me make better things."

Green's self-critique highlights a deeper issue beyond YouTube's focus on overt deception. Extensive AI use in ideation, research, and outlining can subtly shape a project's style and logic, potentially stifling unique human insights and personal creative paths. The policy, focused on preventing outright disinformation, overlooks how AI's foundational support can alter the very nature of content creation.