YouTube to Bring AI-Powered Shorts, Games, and Music to Creators in 2026

YouTube is set to deepen its integration of artificial intelligence (AI) across its platform in 2026, unveiling a host of new tools and features aimed at creators and viewers alike. In a recent announcement, CEO Neal Mohan revealed that the platform will enable creators to produce Shorts using their own likeness, develop games from simple text prompts, and experiment with music, all powered by AI.

Mohan described these features as “tools for expression, not a replacement” for creators, seeking to reassure content producers concerned about AI supplanting human creativity. The new Shorts functionality appears similar to OpenAI’s Sora app, which allows users to generate videos of themselves using text prompts. In addition, YouTube will introduce new formats for Shorts, including image posts that can be shared directly on subscribers’ feeds, akin to Instagram Reels.

The platform is also focusing on enhancing the TV viewing experience . Mohan announced plans for “fully customizable multiview” options and more than ten specialized YouTube TV plans spanning sports, entertainment, and news, giving subscribers greater control over their viewing experience.

Creators can also look forward to expanded monetization opportunities . YouTube will facilitate shopping and brand deals , alongside new fan funding features such as Jewels and gifts , complementing the existing Super Chat function. The company plans to expand its YouTube Shopping program, introducing in-app checkout so viewers can purchase products without leaving the platform, directly from videos, Shorts, and live streams.

Jewels and Gifts are new fan-funding tools that allow viewers to financially support creators on YouTube, especially during live streams and Shorts. Viewers purchase Jewels using real money and convert them into Gifts , which can be sent to creators. These Gifts appear as highlighted or animated interactions on the screen, increasing visibility for both the fan and the creator. Creators receive a share of the revenue generated through these Gifts.

The features are part of YouTube’s broader push to strengthen the creator economy and reduce reliance on advertising alone.

How are they different from Twitch Gift Subs?

While similar in spirit, YouTube’s Jewels and Gifts differ from Twitch’s Gifted Subscriptions. On Twitch, users buy subscriptions for other viewers, unlocking perks like emotes and ad-free viewing. On YouTube, Gifts are direct payments to creators , focused on monetisation and audience interaction rather than community subscription benefits.

In short, YouTube is adopting Twitch’s fan-support model but reshaping it for a wider range of content, including Shorts and videos, not just live streams.

Mohan’s announcement signals YouTube’s commitment to positioning AI as a creative enhancement while strengthening the platform’s ecosystem for creators and viewers alike.