With a huge user base of all ages, YouTube is expected to put some rules in place for content creators so they can avoid using inappropriate language or content. However, YouTube is loosening its belt when it comes to using some swear words.
New Rules
Back in November 2022, YouTubers were not allowed to use propane language in the first few seconds of their videos. Otherwise, the video will be flagged and will become ineligible for monetization, which also applies to previous videos.
Now, YouTube is implementing an updated policy that will be less restrictive with words that would normally make people clutch their pearls. Content creators are now allowed to utter some swear words, with emphasis on the "some" since strong swearing is still not allowed.
The first seven seconds can now contain mild swearing and will still qualify for advertising. There are no clear indications of which cusses are deemed okay or too much, but it's unlikely that YouTube will release a list of those, so content creators should swear with caution.
If the swearing in the first few seconds of the video is a tad overboard, it will still be eligible for ads, but it will be limited, according to Engadget. Even if YouTubers are allowed to swear more after the first part of the video, too much swearing throughout can still cause demonetization.
In some ways, content creators can now express themselves freely if that includes some swearing, and the update answers the issues that some YouTubers raised when it comes to the demonetization of their videos.
As for the video intro and outro, background music with strong language will not affect monetization status. All these language policy updates will be implemented by YouTube starting on March 7th.
In Other News
Last month, YouTube made it possible for content creators to receive ad revenue for YouTube Shorts. Anyone with at least 1,000 subscribers and over ten million views in 90 days is eligible for the Partner Program. March brings the first month of revenue for Shorts.
However, the results seem a bit underwhelming in terms of revenue. Creators have already shared what their first payout looks like. Zach King, who is known for his flawless illusion-themed edits, earned $2,918.10 for the first month.
In his tweet, it shows that he had amassed 196.4 million views, with an RPM (which is revenue for every 1,000 views) is only $0.02. Other Short creators have an RPM of $0.04, according to Social Media Today, which isn't that much different but is still higher.
King also mentioned that payout is still much better than other platforms such as TikTok with its Creator Fund, and Instagram's monetization for Reels. He also mentioned that Short is beneficial when it comes to exposure and brand building.
Still, it makes a little sense that Shorts have a smaller payout, seeing as content creators mostly earn from YouTube videos, which is the main purpose of the platform. YouTube could still improve the payout for Shorts since it is only the first month.
