Have you noticed YouTube skipping videos to the end? It’s not your imagination. This oddity has become a headache for people who rely on adblockers. Let’s unpack what’s going on.
For those who’ve embraced adblockers as their shield against intrusive advertisements, YouTube has emerged as a battleground. In recent months, YouTube has tightened its grip on enforcing its terms of service, which expressly prohibit the use of ad-blocking software. This crackdown is fueled by a desire to ensure that creators receive their fair share of revenue from ad placements alongside their content.
However, users wielding adblockers have proven to be a resilient bunch, prompting YouTube to deploy various tactics in response. From urging users to disable their blockers to outright blocking videos if adblockers are detected, YouTube has been relentless in its quest to safeguard its advertising revenue.
Why is YouTube skipping videos? Is it because of YouTube?
YouTube skipping videos to the end is indeed happening, but whether it’s because of YouTube directly isn’t crystal clear. Some suspect YouTube might be intentionally causing this to discourage the use of adblockers. However, others believe it could be a glitch either within YouTube’s system or within the adblocking software itself. So, while YouTube could be involved, it’s not entirely certain if they’re the ones directly causing the skipping. One thing is sure: YouTube is skipping videos if you use ad blockers now.
New Youtube adblock weird behaviour – video automatically skips to the end
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Moreover, the issue seems to be specific to certain adblocking software, such as AdBlock, suggesting that it may not be a platform-wide glitch but rather a targeted response by YouTube.
The stakes at play
At the heart of this conflict that continues with YouTube skipping videos lies the firm’s reliance on advertising revenue to sustain its platform and support content creators. By discouraging adblocker usage through tactics like video skipping, YouTube seeks to ensure that advertisers continue to see value in advertising on the platform.
For users, however, the experience can be frustrating, as they find themselves caught in the crossfire between YouTube’s revenue strategy and their desire for uninterrupted viewing.
Seeking solutions
In the face of this challenge, users have turned to creative workarounds to reclaim control over their viewing experience. From alternative adblocking software to geographical loopholes that bypass YouTube’s ad platform, users are exploring every avenue to evade the video skipping phenomenon.
However, the best way is to get a YouTube Premium subscription to end this war.
Is YouTube Premium worth it?
YouTube Premium can be worth it for those who want an uninterrupted viewing experience and additional features. With YouTube Premium, you get an ad-free experience, background play, offline downloads, and access to YouTube Music. If you find ads disruptive or enjoy listening to YouTube videos while using other apps or with your screen turned off, then the background play feature alone could make it worth the investment.
Additionally, if you frequently watch videos offline or enjoy music streaming, the added benefits of offline downloads and YouTube Music access further enhance the value of the subscription. However, whether it’s worth it ultimately depends on your individual preferences and usage habits.
How much is YouTube Premium?
The pricing for YouTube Premium varies depending on the plan and your location. Here’s a breakdown of the pricing options:
- Individual Plan:
- $11.99 per month when subscribing online or through an Android device.
- $15.99 per month for iOS users if subscribed through the YouTube app on their iPhone or iPad. This higher price is due to Apple’s fees for in-app transactions.
- Family Plan:
- $17.99 per month, allowing you to add up to five family members aged 13 and older, provided they live in the same household and have their own Google accounts.
- Student Plan:
- $6.99 per month, available for students enrolled in higher education. This plan includes a one-month free trial and requires annual verification of eligibility.
Please note that these prices may vary slightly depending on your region and any promotional offers that may be available. Additionally, there may be discounts for annual subscriptions or bundled packages with other Google services in some region.
The skipping videos on YouTube are frustrating, no doubt. But they’re also a reminder of the tug-of-war between users who want to skip ads and YouTube, which wants to make money from them. Until they find a middle ground, expect this battle to keep going or get a YouTube Premium.
Featured image credit: Eray Eliaçık/Bing
