Why is TikTok labeling my video as AI-generated?

Either you switched on the "AI-generated content" toggle, or TikTok applied the label itself. TikTok Shop's US policy, dated 09/02/2026, says an "AI-generated" label may be applied automatically if content contains specific technical metadata, and that a creator cannot remove a label the platform applied. Its FAQ adds that the platform may label content that is AI-generated or significantly AI-edited when the creator did not disclose it.

Everything TikTok-side is from AI-Generated Content Restrictions and Requirements, a US Seller Center page read 2026-09-29. The page does not say which metadata it looks for, so I do not either.

What does TikTok say about automatic labels?

The page has a short section titled Platform-Initiated Disclosure. Its key points:

Will the label hurt my reach?

TikTok's FAQ answers a nearby question: content will not be restricted for enabling the AI-generated content label, and the page encourages creators to disclose AI content proactively. It also says the application of AI-generated labels cannot be reversed, and that a label the platform applied proactively will be reviewed case by case.

That covers the label. The page separately lists distribution limits, product-link removal and Creator Health Rating deductions as enforcement for content that violates the policy, for example one that misrepresents a product. A label alone is not on that list.

Does a Sume video carry that metadata?

I cannot tell you. Sume's video generation docs list the request parameters and the returned file, and do not mention embedded metadata, content credentials or a watermark. TikTok's page does not say what metadata it detects. Without either document, any claim that Sume files will or will not trigger a label would be a guess.

Some AI vendors do state embedded credentials. TikTok's own Symphony announcement from August 2026, for instance, says content made with Symphony carries AI labels, an invisible watermark and C2PA Content Credentials. That describes TikTok's tools, not other generators.

What should I do about it?

Since the label cannot be removed and is not penalized by itself, the practical answer is to disclose up front. Turn on the AI-generated content toggle on the post settings page, or add on-screen text, a watermark, a sticker or a note in the description. Do not label footage that used no AI: TikTok says labeling content as AI-generated when AI was not used is a violation.

If you shot real footage and only adjusted lighting, color or noise, TikTok's FAQ says minor edits and basic enhancements do not require disclosure. Substantial changes, such as altering what someone says or does, do.