YouTube CEO Neal Mohan discusses creator economy, AI, and India’s role in digital growth

New Delhi: In a recent episode of People by WTF, YouTube CEO Neal Mohan spoke with investor and entrepreneur Nikhil Kamath about the evolving digital content landscape, the rise of independent creators, and YouTube’s plans for incorporating artificial intelligence (AI). The conversation touched on broader shifts in how audiences consume content, including India’s growing role in shaping digital culture.

Shift toward podcasting and independent news

A key focus of the discussion was YouTube’s investment in podcasts. Kamath raised the issue of declining trust in traditional news channels and the shift toward podcasters, who are seen by many as independent voices. Mohan noted that YouTube anticipated this shift early on and developed a three-part podcast strategy focused on video consumption, easier discovery, and built-in monetization. He said the pandemic accelerated the demand for visual content, including podcast-style discussions that audiences prefer to watch rather than just listen to.

Expanding the creator model

Mohan differentiated YouTube from other platforms, describing it as a global framework for creators rather than a traditional media outlet. He emphasized the platform’s technological infrastructure that allows for diverse voices, particularly in multilingual and culturally rich regions such as India. According to Mohan, YouTube aims to support a wide variety of formats and devices to accommodate different types of users and creators.

Content creation and future trends

Asked about the future of digital content, Mohan predicted that creator-driven content would become mainstream. He emphasized the growing role of AI in content production—not as a replacement for human creativity, but as a support tool. For example, YouTube is testing tools that allow creators to dub videos into multiple languages or generate visuals using AI.

Mohan described these tools as practical and increasingly necessary, particularly as platforms and creators face demands for faster production and broader accessibility.

Authenticity and long-term growth

Addressing questions about building digital influence, Mohan advised aspiring creators to prioritise authenticity and consistency over short-term popularity or commercial intent. He stated that YouTube is structured to reward creators who engage regularly with audiences and develop content around genuine interests, rather than using the platform purely for product promotion.

Content as a business strategy

Kamath asked Mohan to identify ways content can be used to support entrepreneurship. Mohan outlined five key trends: content ownership, audience feedback, cross-border reach, rising multi-device consumption, and diversified revenue models. He highlighted the growth of content-driven businesses in India and noted that Indian creators are generating significant international viewership, making digital content an export in itself.

Addressing piracy concerns

Finally, the discussion turned to content protection. Mohan acknowledged that piracy remains a challenge and outlined YouTube’s two-part approach, which includes digital rights management (DRM) technologies and platform policies aimed at discouraging unauthorized sharing. While he conceded that no system offers complete protection, he said YouTube is continually working to strengthen its enforcement tools.

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