YouTube Unveils AI Tools for Creators and Viewers at Made On YouTube 2026

YouTube has spent years developing artificial intelligence features to improve both the creator and viewer experience. The platform has long used algorithms to recommend videos, but creators have often struggled to understand and influence these systems. As competition from other social and video apps increased, YouTube began investing more in tools that give creators greater control and help users discover content more easily.

By 2026, demand for smarter, more personalized online experiences had grown. YouTube responded by developing new AI features and chose its annual Made On YouTube event as the stage to reveal its latest innovations.

On September 23, 2026, YouTube hosted its Made On YouTube event, announcing a major expansion of AI-driven features. The company introduced new creator tools that use AI to test video thumbnails, titles, and even content variations, helping creators find what works best for their audiences, according to Technology.

YouTube also announced Custom Feeds, allowing users to build their own homepage feeds using AI prompts, as reported by 9to5Google. This lets viewers tailor their experience and escape the standard algorithmic recommendations. Other features unveiled included GIF comments and AI-powered podcast discovery.

A key highlight was the conversational video editing tool, which enables creators to edit videos using natural language commands. This tool is designed to make video editing faster and more intuitive, according to TechCrunch. Additionally, YouTube rolled out new insights tools to help creators better understand their audience and improve performance.

The company also revealed video shopping features like Ask YouTube, letting users get product information and recommendations while watching videos. Throughout the event, YouTube executives stressed that these AI features are meant to assist creators and not to replace them, addressing concerns about automation and creative control.

YouTube's new AI features are set to roll out in the coming months. Creators and users can expect more personalized feeds, easier video editing, and new ways to engage with content.

YouTube has positioned these tools as enhancements that give creators more options and insights, while giving users better ways to find and interact with content. The company is actively seeking feedback from both groups as it continues to refine and expand these features.

The next phase will be the real-world rollout of these AI tools and how they affect both creators and users. Key questions remain about how much control creators will have over the AI-driven options and how users will respond to more personalized feeds. YouTube's promise to support, not replace, creators will likely be tested as the new features become widely available.