No, Sora 2 won’t replace real human videos. In fact, human-made video content is about to become more valuable than ever. While AI video tools like Sora 2 can now create remarkably realistic footage, audiences are already showing signs of fatigue with generic AI-generated content. The result? Videos featuring real people will carry more weight for building trust and credibility.
Here’s what you need to know about AI video generation and why now is the best time to start creating authentic video content.
What Is Sora 2?
Sora 2 is OpenAI’s latest AI video generation model. Unlike earlier versions, Sora 2 can create highly realistic video clips from text prompts. OpenAI released it alongside a TikTok-style app where users can browse and create AI-generated videos.
The quality is impressive. In many cases, viewers can’t immediately tell whether they’re watching AI-generated or human-made content. This represents a significant leap in AI capability, but it also raises questions about authenticity and trust.
The Rise of “AI Slop” and Audience Fatigue
The internet is already seeing a flood of low-quality AI-generated videos. Industry observers have coined the term “AI slop” to describe this mass-produced, repetitive content.
YouTube is responding by updating its monetization policies to exclude mass-produced or repetitive videos from ad revenue. The platform has always required “original and authentic” content, but the update makes clear that obvious AI clickbait won’t be monetized.
Viewers are noticing too. A 2025 EY study reports that many users experience AI content fatigue. They describe algorithmic posts as “sterile and detached from real human experience” and say they’re “drawn to authentic human perspectives” instead.
Why Human Video Will Gain Value
As AI-generated videos flood social media, human-made content stands out. Real people on camera signal authenticity in ways that synthetic content cannot.
Research backs this up. Nearly 90% of consumers say that “authentic” images and videos are crucial to trust. When viewers see real faces and genuine stories, they’re more likely to trust the brand behind the content.
One marketing analysis found that “trust grows when consumers see real people on screen” and that showing human testimonials or executives “helps make sure that you’re still genuine.”
The contrast effect matters too. As audiences encounter more AI-generated content, they’ll increasingly crave authentic human-made work. Real videos will feel refreshing against a backdrop of synthetic content.
Can You Tell the Difference Between Real and AI Video?
Not always. And that’s exactly the problem.
Technical Detection Methods
Companies are working on technical solutions. OpenAI plans to embed C2PA metadata in Sora videos so content “comes from a particular source” and can’t easily be faked. Invisible watermarks and “AI fingerprints” are also in development.
But these methods have limits. Watermarks can be corrupted or removed with simple edits like blurs or noise overlays. A Brookings report notes that traditional watermarks are “fairly easy to corrupt or remove” and can’t be fully relied upon.
Social Trust Signals
Since technical markers will be imperfect, viewers will rely on social trust signals instead:
- Known creators with consistent posting history
- Verified accounts and channels
- Brand reputation and track record
- Comments and community engagement
- Real human faces appearing regularly
The strongest way to authenticate video content may simply be trust in the brand or person posting it. Viewers will look for familiar faces and voices rather than perfect forensic proof.
The AI Feedback Loop Problem
There’s another concern beyond realism: addictiveness.
OpenAI’s policies confirm that content generated on Sora may be used to train future models. Every video people create and watch feeds back into the system. The algorithm learns which clips get engagement and tunes future output accordingly.
Sam Altman himself warned about the risk of an “RL-optimized junk feed” – meaning reinforcement-learning algorithms pushing content that maximizes clicks and watch time.
AI-generated videos can be optimized for addictiveness rather than accuracy. Over time, these systems could become skilled at capturing attention and shaping perceptions. That’s arguably more dangerous than simple realism.
How Brands Should Respond
If you’re building a brand, this is your window of opportunity. Here’s what to do:
Show Real People on Camera
Use employees, customers, or executives in your videos. Even simple smartphone footage signals authenticity. Viewers immediately recognize genuine human presence.
Focus on Quality Over Quantity
One well-made video with real insight beats dozens of generic AI clips. Audiences can sense effort and remember thoughtful storytelling.
Be Transparent About AI Use
If you use AI in production, say so. Studies show nearly 90% of consumers want to know if content is AI-generated. They react poorly if they feel deceived.
Build Consistency Now
By creating authentic content today, you establish yourself as a trusted source before AI video becomes ubiquitous. When synthetic content floods the market, your audience will remember which companies were consistently genuine.
Video Genres Where Humans Will Prevail
Not all video content is equally at risk of AI takeover. These formats will remain anchored in human creation:
- Personal vlogs and storytelling – Individual personality and lived experiences can’t be authentically replicated
- Interviews and conversations – Unscripted dialogue, body language, and spontaneous reactions require real humans
- Expert tutorials – Viewers trust knowledgeable humans for credibility on complex topics
- Live events and news – Real-time coverage depends on human judgment and unpredictability
- Cultural and creative content – Avant-garde work requires genuine human creativity rather than pattern recycling
Research shows that AI content “often lacks depth, nuance and genuine human perspectives.” People return to interviews, podcasts, and formats that promise real insight.
Start Creating Real Videos Now
The current moment is unique. People can still tell when video is made by a real person. Use this window to build trust and establish your brand.
AI video will continue improving. Within a few years, the line between real and synthetic will blur significantly. But brands that have consistently put real people on camera will have earned credibility that’s difficult to replicate.
The goal isn’t to avoid AI entirely. AI tools can enhance production, speed up editing, and help distribute content. But the core message should come from real humans with genuine expertise and perspective.
Ready to Build Trust Through Video?
At TJ Digital, we help businesses create and distribute authentic video content that builds trust with their audience. We understand how AI fits into your marketing strategy without replacing the human element that makes your brand unique.
If you’re interested in starting a video content strategy, we can help you with everything from ideation to distribution. Contact us for a free audit of your current digital marketing efforts.