YouTube CEO Neal Mohan has outlined how the company is trying to make the platform “perfect” for creators, even as recent changes—especially around AI—continue to draw criticism.
Like most social platforms, YouTube has evolved beyond long-form video. Shorts now dominate much of user watch time, with AI playing a growing role in both content creation and moderation.
That shift has sparked backlash from creators and viewers alike.
At the start of 2026, Mohan said YouTube plans to crack down on low-quality “AI slop” and refocus on real creators. Speaking on CNBC’s Leaders Playbook, he said YouTube’s role is to “build the stage” by providing the best technology and viewing experience, while creators remain the stars of the platform.
Despite those promises, criticism has persisted. Creator MoistCr1TiKaL publicly slammed YouTube’s AI push, calling the tools harmful and accusing leadership of being out of touch after a wave of account bans late last year.