- Target:
- Anyone
- Region:
- GLOBAL
- Website:
- www.theverge.com
There’s been a lot of buzz (and backlash) about something related to YouTube's August 13th update, especially in the Roblox and younger creator communities.
What’s Happening on August 13th?
YouTube is introducing a new policy starting August 13, 2025, that seems to focus on:
1. AI-generated content labeling
- Creators will now have to label videos if they include realistic AI-generated content.
- This includes deepfakes, AI voices, or anything that could mislead viewers.
- If they don’t, YouTube might add the label themselves. or take down the video.
2. ID verification for creators
- Some people are saying YouTube is requiring ID verification for certain content creators, especially:
- Those using AI tools in their videos.
- Or those using realistic-looking avatars or voices generated by AI.
Why is this controversial?
- People are worried about privacy, especially younger creators or fans of games like Roblox who don’t want to give ID info.
- Some feel it’s unfair or scary to force creators to verify identity just because they use AI tools or have cartoon-style content.
- Others think this will limit creativity or make it harder for small creators to grow.
Why are there protests in the comments?
- Many Roblox creators and fans are young or use avatars, so they feel targeted by this change.
- They’re worried they might not be able to make content without showing ID.
- So, people are flooding comment sections, especially on official Roblox or YouTube-related videos, to protest or raise awareness.
- AI-Powered Age Estimation & Verification (Rollout Starts August 13, 2025)
- The Verge reports that starting August 13, YouTube will use AI to estimate whether users are under 18 based on behavior and account activity, then automatically apply protections like restricted content access, non-personalized ads, and wellbeing tools. Users flagged incorrectly can verify their age via government ID, a selfie, or a credit card.
- TechRadar explains this AI-driven age check, noting YouTube’s process uses signals like watch history and account age, and that it's currently being trialed in the U.S.
- Ars Technica raises concerns about privacy, especially around the verification appeals process, which may require submitting sensitive data—and highlights the lack of clarity around data retention.
- Windows Central emphasizes the AI’s role in distinguishing teens from adults to provide age-appropriate experiences.
- PC Gamer also covers the rollout, noting how YouTube uses viewing behavior to estimate age and enacts additional safeguards for minors while allowing verification for misclassified users.
-Is this confirmed?
YouTube has confirmed the AI labeling part, and some form of ID verification may be coming, but not everything is 100% clear yet. It might not affect all users mostly those using realistic AI content.
We, the undersigned, call on YouTube to reconsider or revise the August 13th update requiring ID verification for creators using AI tools or avatars.
We believe this policy risks excluding younger and privacy-conscious creators, especially those in gaming communities like Roblox. We urge YouTube to protect creativity, privacy, and accessibility for all users—without forcing identity verification unless truly necessary.
(Objective, get as many signatures as possible before August 13th and get YouTube to FINALLY listen to us)
You can further help this campaign by sponsoring it
The Youtube August 13th Drama petition to Anyone was written by Drezna Herrera and is in the category Internet at GoPetition.