The speaker is discussing the implications of the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) and the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) recent settlement with YouTube. The settlement requires YouTube to take action to separate advertisers from kids' content on the platform, which means that videos labeled as "kids' content" will lose targeted ads starting January 1st, 2020. This could result in creators losing up to 90% of their ad revenue.
The speaker argues that the definition of "kids' content" is too broad and could lead to many channels being unfairly categorized, including those that are not primarily aimed at children but may still appeal to them. They also express concern that the FTC's rules could lead to a "gray area" where creators are unsure whether their content is compliant, and that the penalties for non-compliance could be severe, including fines of up to $42,000 per video.
The speaker encourages creators, audiences, and the FTC to work together to find a solution and to educate themselves about the issue. They also promote their merchandise as a way for viewers to support their channel in case it is affected by the new regulations.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. YouTube is facing a significant change due to a settlement with the FTC regarding children's online privacy.
2. The settlement involves YouTube agreeing to take action to separate advertisers from kids' content on the platform.
3. The FTC has ruled that ads targeting kids are not allowed on kids' content, and YouTube will lose targeted ads on videos labeled as kids' content starting January 1st, 2020.
4. YouTube defines kids' content as content that intentionally aims at kids, includes characters or toys that appeal to children, has a predominantly child audience, or contains activities that appeal to children.
5. Many channels, including those in the gaming and animation communities, may be affected by this change.
6. Channels that are unsure whether their content is considered kids' content must self-identify and fill out a form before January 2020.
7. The FTC can fine channels up to $42,000 per video if they are found to have miss-categorized their content as not being for kids.
8. The change may lead to a loss of up to 90% of ad revenue for some channels.
9. Content creators are uncertain about how to categorize their content and are seeking guidance from YouTube and the FTC.
10. The FTC is accepting comments on the new laws and encourages thoughtful and articulate feedback.
11. Audiences are also encouraged to get informed and support their favorite creators, who may be affected by the change.
12. The change may lead to a shift in the types of content created on YouTube, with some channels potentially changing their content to be more mature or less child-friendly.