YouTube Shorts to Get AI Versions of Creators You Follow: What’s Changing in 2026

YouTube is preparing to roll out a major AI-driven update for Shorts that will allow creators to generate videos using AI versions of themselves. Announced by CEO Neal Mohan, the update also includes new Shorts formats, music discovery tools, and enhanced safety controls for kids and teens.

YouTube Shorts May Soon Feature AI Versions of Creators You Follow

YouTube is working on a new artificial intelligence-based feature that will allow creators to produce Shorts using AI-generated versions of themselves. The update was announced by YouTube CEO Neal Mohan, who said creators will soon be able to use their own likeness to create content, while also experimenting with AI tools for games and music.

Alongside AI upgrades, YouTube also plans to expand Shorts with new content formats and introduce additional music-related features aimed at discovery rather than just video consumption.

YouTube Update: What’s Coming

AI-Powered Creator Likeness for Shorts

In 2026, YouTube will allow creators to use AI to generate Shorts using their “own likeness.” This means creators can make short-form videos featuring an AI version of themselves, reducing production effort while maintaining personal identity.

In addition to creator likeness tools, YouTube will also:

• Allow creators to generate games using text prompts (currently available in closed beta)

• Enable creators to “experiment with music” using AI-powered tools

Growing Use of AI Tools in YouTube Shorts

YouTube has been steadily integrating AI features into Shorts. Existing tools already include:

• AI-generated video clips

• Stickers

• Auto-dubbing

• Other AI-assisted creative tools

With the upcoming expansion, YouTube said it will give creators better control over how their identity is used in AI-generated content.

AI Likeness Detection and Misuse Prevention

To address concerns around impersonation and deepfake-style content, YouTube has introduced likeness-detection technology. This system can identify AI-generated videos that use a creator’s face or voice.

If such content is detected:

• Creators can request removal

• The system aims to reduce misuse, impersonation, and deepfake risks

Like other major social platforms, YouTube acknowledged that it is dealing with low-quality AI-generated content flooding feeds. The company said it is developing systems to protect content quality and user trust.

Shorts to Expand With New Content Formats

Image-Based Posts Coming to Shorts

Beyond AI tools, YouTube is planning to introduce new Shorts formats, including image-based posts. Similar formats already exist on platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels.

According to YouTube, the goal is to:

• Allow users to engage with creators in more ways

• Reduce the need to switch between different sections of the app

YouTube’s Increased Focus on Music Discovery

More Than Just Music Videos

YouTube is also shifting its strategy around music content. Instead of only promoting music videos, the platform plans to:

• Help users discover new artists

• Provide background information about songs

• Allow users to track new music releases more easily

This move positions Shorts as a broader discovery tool for music and creators alike.

Kids and Teen Safety Updates

Stronger Parental Controls for Shorts

Last week, YouTube announced updates aimed at making parental controls easier to use. Under the new changes:

• Parents will have greater control over Shorts watch time

• Shorts can be completely blocked by setting the time limit to zero

Simplified Kids Account Management

YouTube also confirmed that in 2026, it plans to:

• Simplify the setup of kids’ accounts

• Make it easier for parents to switch between accounts

• Ensure each family member gets an age-appropriate viewing experience