YouTube has ceased to be a simple video platform and has become the epicenter of digital entertainment. With over 2.800 billion monthly users, Google's platform dominates audiovisual consumption on both computers and smart TVs. However, this growth has not been without controversy. In recent months, YouTube has had to contend with a wave of AI-generated health misinformation channels and the mass cancellation of ASMR channels, which has reopened the debate about its policies of moderation and transparency.
In Spain, the platform has 37,5 million users over the age of 18According to ComScore data, more than half of that consumption occurs via connected TVs. But while its reach grows, So do the risks associated with disinformation and content management trimmed.
The unstoppable reach of YouTube in Spain and the world
YouTube has not only achieved exceed $60.000 billion in annual revenueIt has not only become the most-watched television platform in the United States for several consecutive months, but has also positioned itself as the most-watched platform for television, accounting for nearly 13% of total viewing hours. In Spain, its reach is equally remarkable: 37,5 million unique users per month, a significant portion of whom access it via television. The platform has successfully adapted to new viewing habits, promoting short videos (Shorts) that accumulate over 200.000 billion daily views globally.
Furthermore, the creator ecosystem has given rise to a new generation of talent that is reshaping Hollywood. Examples such as Obsession, directed by YouTuber Curry Barker with a budget of $750.000It has grossed over $440 million at the box office, while Kane Parsons' Backrooms has become A24's highest-grossing film with over $380 million. These cases demonstrate that YouTube is not only a consumption platform, but also a breeding ground for filmmakers capable of competing with major franchises.
The threat of disinformation: AI-generated fake doctors
But YouTube's success also has its dark side. An investigation has uncovered a network of 1.046 channels using artificial intelligence to impersonate doctors and spread health misinformation. These channels, which have amassed over 13 million subscribers and published more than 62.000 videos, offer supposed miracle cures for cancer or Alzheimer's, without any scientific backing. Of these, 95 channels are based in Spain, where The fight against health misinformation intensifies.
The AI-generated avatars appear dressed in lab coats and carrying stethoscopes, simulating medical consultations to gain credibility. Many of these channels redirect to external platforms where they sell supplements or health guides. Although YouTube labels some videos as "AI-generated content," most channels carry no warning. Health misinformation on YouTube poses a real risk to userswho may abandon conventional medical treatments, trusting in these fake experts.
The controversial moderation: YouTube cancels ASMR channels
On the other hand, YouTube has been criticized for its moderation policies. In late July 2026, the platform abruptly canceled several ASMR channels, such as ItsBunniiASMR, Slight Sounds, and Nananightray, accusing them of violating its policies on sexual content. Those affected claim they received no prior warnings and that their appeals were rejected. YouTube justified the action by stating that the channels linked to external content that violated its rules, although it did not specify which links were in fact in violation.
ASMR, a genre based on soft sounds that helps combat anxiety and insomnia, According to the creators, it has been misinterpreted by the platform.Slight Sounds stated that "ASMR is not inherently sexual" and that the decision has destroyed their livelihood of years. This case, along with others such as the cancellation of Amouranth's channel in 2024, calls into question YouTube's transparency in enforcing its policies.
YouTube is experiencing a moment of contrasts. On the one hand, its growth in audience and revenue is unstoppable, and its ability to launch film careers from scratch is undeniable. On the other, the proliferation of health misinformation and controversial content moderation decisions raise questions about its responsibility as a global platform. While the company continues to expand its influence, The social and legal pressure for it to act with greater transparency and efficiency continues to increase..
