The number of advertisements on YouTube has been steadily increasing, with users now often having to watch two ads before their video starts. Previously, ads were limited to a few in the menus and a single one for a video. These ads are also becoming longer in duration. Unsurprisingly, this serves as a significant revenue stream for Google. However, they offer an alternative solution in the form of a YouTube Premium subscription, starting at 6.99 euros per month, providing an ad-free experience.
Many users find this subscription fee too expensive and instead opt for ad blockers. These free software tools effectively block ads from appearing, which poses a challenge for companies heavily reliant on advertising revenue, including Google and numerous smaller entities. Frustrated with the impact of ad blockers, Google has taken action.
Previously, Google tested a tool to restrict ad blockers, and now YouTube is intensifying its efforts. Users employing ad blockers will receive a new notification insisting on their deactivation specifically for YouTube. Failure to comply with this requirement runs the risk of being blocked from accessing YouTube altogether.
The notification remains similar, but three white blocks have been added for emphasis. The message now reads: “Video player will be blocked after 3 videos.” Beneath the message, users are presented with two options: either continue using YouTube with ads for free or subscribe to YouTube Premium. A Reddit user was the first to notice this update.
If you use an ad blocker, have you encountered this notification on YouTube? Have you whitelisted us yet? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments section below this article.