YouTube announced on May 15, 2026, that it is making its AI-powered likeness detection tool available to all users aged 18 and older with a YouTube account. Previously, the feature was limited to content creators in a testing phase, then expanded to government officials, politicians, journalists, and entertainment industry professionals. The tool works by having users complete a selfie-style facial scan, which YouTube then uses to scan its platform for content featuring similar faces.
When the system detects a potential match, YouTube notifies the affected user, who can then request removal of the content. According to YouTube, removal requests evaluated under the platform's privacy policy consider factors such as whether the content is realistic, whether it is labeled as AI-generated, and whether the person can be uniquely identified. The policy includes exceptions for parody and satire. However, the tool only monitors facial likeness and does not track other identifying features like voice.
Spokesperson Jack Malon clarified that the expansion applies to any YouTube user over 18, with no specific requirements for what constitutes an eligible "creator." Users can also opt out of the program and request that YouTube delete their biometric data. Despite the expanded access, YouTube has previously noted that the number of removal requests it has received has been "very small." The announcement was made through YouTube's creator forum.