[DigitalToday reporter Chi-gyu Hwang (황치규)] YouTube appears to be accelerating efforts to block AI spam content.

YouTube recently deleted more than 10 channels that used AI-generated cat and Jesus characters, among others, Business Insider reported on Jan. 30 local time.

A YouTube spokesperson said, "We do not allow spam, fraud and deceptive practices."

A report released by Kapwing in November last year found that 21 percent of YouTube feeds were filled with AI-generated videos.

YouTube CEO Neal Mohan also made reducing low-quality AI content a key task in the platform's 2026 strategy. YouTube is not opposed to AI and, together with Google, is leading AI innovation. But there is criticism that AI spam is likely to have a negative impact on advertisers.

YouTube has strengthened its position in the advertising market by highlighting high-quality content through NewFronts and content showcases. Against that backdrop, there is criticism that if AI spam encroaches on the platform, its premium advertising strategy could be shaken.

In a December analysis, Nielsen said YouTube became the largest streaming platform among U.S. TV viewers, overtaking Netflix and Disney.