Google-owned video-sharing platform, YouTube, has recently unveiled a new policy aimed at fan channels to protect the authenticity of content and prevent misleading practices. Starting from August 21, 2023, individuals operating fan channels on YouTube will be required to indicate in their channel name or handle that their content does not represent the original creator, artist, or entity.
The company outlined this update on a support page, emphasizing the need for transparency and honesty within the YouTube community. Channels posing as another creator and re-uploading their content while claiming to be a "fan account" will no longer be allowed. Moreover, channels that mimic another channel by using identical names, avatars, or banners with minor alterations like adding spaces or substituting letters with numbers will also be prohibited.
This policy change aims to safeguard genuine fan channels from imitations and shield creators from exploiting their names and likenesses for malicious purposes. By implementing these guidelines, the platform intends to maintain the trust of its viewers and ensure they are not misled by fraudulent channels they engage with and follow.
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Last week, YouTube also introduced alterations to its YouTube Partner Program (YPP) eligibility requirements. The platform has lowered the threshold for smaller creators to participate in the program.
With the new policy, creators can now join the program once they have reached 500 subscribers and 3,000 valid watch hours. The lowered eligibility criteria will initially roll out in several countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Taiwan, and South Korea.
This change opens up monetization opportunities for a broader range of content creators. Smaller channels can now access monetization features, including paid chat, tipping, channel memberships, and shopping functionalities.
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