New AI tools for creators
YouTube is developing three key AI-based features. Creators will be able to generate Shorts using their own image, experiment with music creation, and... build games based on text prompts as part of the Playables program. It sounds like science fiction, but according to YouTube data, more than a million channels a day were already using AI tools in December.
Mohan emphasizes that artificial intelligence is meant to support creativity, not replace it. At the same time, the platform announces a fight against low-quality content generated en masse by AI, developing systems for detecting spam and clickbait. In other words: more possibilities, but also more control.
Shopping without leaving YouTube
Another big step is the introduction of full checkout shopping directly in the app. Users will see a product in a video and buy it without leaving YouTube. Already, more than 500,000 creators use YouTube Shopping, and the new feature is set to further shorten the path from inspiration to transaction.
Tools for collaboration with brands are also being developed. Shorts creators will be able to add sponsored links, and a new solution will allow them to replace advertising segments in older videos, turning archived content into a steady source of revenue.
Shorts increasingly like Instagram
Graphic posts are added to the Shorts feed. Static images alongside videos are a clear nod to the format known from Instagram. With an average of 200 billion Shorts views per day, it is clear that YouTube treats this format as one of the main pillars of the platform.
More control for parents
New parental control options will allow you to set time limits on how long children and teenagers can scroll through Shorts – even down to zero. YouTube describes this as an unprecedented solution in the industry, which shows the growing pressure on platforms in the context of digital hygiene.
Why it matters
YouTube consistently keeps users and money within its own ecosystem. AI simplifies content creation, in-app purchases increase conversion, and new formats engage audiences for longer. The scale is enormous – over $100 billion paid out to creators in four years speaks for itself.
Most of the new features don't have exact implementation dates yet, but 2026 promises to be a year of further acceleration. For creators and brands, this is a signal that it's worth preparing for even greater integration of content, technology, and sales.
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YouTube focuses on AI, in-app shopping, and new Shorts formats – plans for 2026
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1 min 50 sec
YouTube CEO Neal Mohan has published his annual letter revealing the platform's priorities for 2026. The direction is clear: more artificial intelligence for creators, a stronger entry into e-commerce, and further evolution of the Shorts format.
These are not cosmetic changes, but another step towards a closed ecosystem where creation, viewing, and shopping all happen in one place.
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