YouTube relaxes rules about what creators can and can’t say in videos

YouTube has relaxed its rules on what creators can say in their videos, allowing more content that might have been taken down in the past. The platform has adjusted its exception rule, which permits videos with up to 50% of content violating guidelines for misinformation or showing violence, up from 25%. This change benefits creators who blend news and opinion in their videos. The new rule applies to a small fraction of videos, but is vital for ensuring important content remains available. YouTube's goal is to protect free expression while preventing the spread of misinformation. The platform regularly updates its community guidelines to adapt to new types of content and feedback from creators. The new rules focus on content considered in the public interest, such as discussions on elections, race, and gender. YouTube still actively monitors posts and removes content that violates its policies, with removals up 22% in the first quarter compared to the year prior. However, the number of videos removed for misinformation was down 61% in the first quarter, partly due to the removal of COVID-19 policies.