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YouTube · Original Shorts

Make your commentary the reason to watch.

YouTube announced an October 1 change prioritizing original Shorts and reducing distribution of reuploads that add little meaningful value.

English edition published November 8, 2026 · Source checked 2026-11-08
Source announcement: 2026-10-01

For: Creators using clips or compilation formats

Availability: Rights clearance is separate • Reach is not guaranteed

Next step: Lead with your own explanation, narrative or point of view.

What changed

Channels collecting or reposting other creators’ clips without substantial changes may see reduced Shorts feed distribution.

Editorial application

Make it clear what you contributed: your explanation, meaningful editing, story or perspective. Minor technical adjustments and superficial template changes are not a substitute.

Put it to use

  1. Identify the material you created and any third-party clips.
  2. Make your own analysis or narrative central to the video.
  3. Check permission and rights separately.

Adding commentary does not automatically give you rights to another person’s footage. Original content does not guarantee more views.

YouTube official documentation · Read the source ↗

Platform documentation and our editorial application advice are distinguished above. Availability may vary by country, device and account.