YouTube, owned by Google, is experimenting with a new feature—a countdown timer on ad-block warnings. A Reddit user recently shared a screenshot showcasing the timer in the upper right corner of the ad-block warning popup, sparking speculation about the platform's intentions. While the exact duration of the timer remains undisclosed, it is anticipated to last around 30 to 60 seconds.

According to a report from Android Police, this trial appears to be targeted at a limited group of users, as not all accounts have reported encountering the countdown timer. The move follows YouTube's recent testing of a three-strikes policy against individuals using ad blockers.

Figure 1. YouTube experimenting with countdown timer for ad-block warnings

YouTube experimenting with countdown timer for ad-block warnings is shown in Figure 1. In response to these instances, viewers with enabled ad blockers were encouraged to either allow ads on YouTube or explore YouTube Premium.

Ad blocker detection is not unique to YouTube, as other content publishers also request users to disable ad blockers. In line with its terms of service, the platform considers ad blockers to be a violation. In more severe cases, viewers who persist in using ad blockers may experience temporary playback disablement.

Notably, the company has been active in exploring new features to enhance user experience. Earlier this month, the platform began testing AI-generated summaries for videos. These summaries provide users with quick overviews, helping them decide if a video aligns with their interests. Importantly, these summaries are intended to complement video descriptions created by content creators.[1]

YouTube encourages viewers with enabled ad blockers to either allow ads on the platform or explore YouTube Premium. Ad blocker detection is not unique to YouTube, as other content publishers also request users to disable ad blockers. Violations of this policy may result in temporary playback disablement.

In addition to this new feature, YouTube has been actively exploring other enhancements for user experience. The platform is currently testing AI-generated summaries for videos to help users decide if a video aligns with their interests. These summaries are designed to complement video descriptions created by content creators.

YouTube also recently announced measures to counter spam and scams. From August 31, 2023, links in Shorts comments and descriptions will be non-clickable. However, the platform plans to introduce new methods for creators to highlight significant links. Additionally, clickable social media icons will no longer appear on all desktop channel banners.[2]

One YouTube user noticed the new timer in the popup's upper right corner, and later posted a screenshot on Reddit, reports Android Police. Another user in the comments also claimed to see this popup as well. While the duration of the countdown timer is not revealed, it is expected to be around 30 to 60 seconds.

Given that Google seems to be testing this feature with a limited number of accounts, some users may be fortunate enough to not encounter these popups at the moment. The video-sharing platform had started to test the three-strikes policy for people using ad blockers in June.

"We're running a small experiment globally that urges viewers with ad blockers enabled to allow ads on YouTube or try YouTube Premium. Ad blocker detection is not new, and other publishers regularly ask viewers to disable ad blockers," a YouTube spokesperson had said. According to the company, "ad blockers violate YouTube's Terms of Service."

"In extreme cases, where viewers continue their use of ad blockers, playback will be temporarily disabled," the company had explained. Earlier this month, the company had started testing artificial intelligence (AI) auto-generated summaries on the platform. This feature will make it easier for users to read a quick summary about a video and decide whether it is the right fit for them. According to the video-sharing platform, these summaries do not replace video descriptions which are written by creators.[1]

References:

1. https://www.indiatvnews.com/technology/news/youtube-experimenting-with-countdown-timer-for-ad-block-warnings-2023-08-13-886454
2. https://ts2.space/en/youtube-tests-countdown-timer-on-ad-block-alerts/
3. https://www.dtnext.in/news/business/chatgpt-maker-openai-likely-to-go-bankrupt-by-2024-report-729864?infinitescroll=1

Cite this article:

Gokula Nandhini K (2023), YouTube experimenting with countdown timer for ad-block warnings, AnaTechmaz, pp.471