YouTube viewers using ad-blocking extensions may have noticed a new phenomenon recently. Instead of skipping ads altogether, some users are now encountering black screens that appear for a few seconds before their video starts playing. These black screens could actually be ads that are not being completely blocked by the ad-blocking browser extensions.
This development comes on the heels of reports that YouTube has been working on implementing new ad-injection technology. The platform has been taking measures to discourage viewers from using ad-blocking extensions, including implementing a three-strikes policy for such users. Now, it seems like YouTube is exploring new ways to prevent ad-blocking add-ons from skipping ads.
According to reports from several Redditors with ad-blocking extensions, the black screens they are seeing on YouTube last anywhere from six to around 20 seconds before the video starts. It is speculated that these black screens are actually ads that have been blocked by the browser extensions. This aligns with rumors that YouTube has been experimenting with server-side ad injection technology, which essentially embeds the ad within the video itself to make it more difficult for ad blockers to bypass them. While the extensions are able to block the ad’s content, they are unable to skip ahead to the main video content.
YouTube has not officially commented on this ad injection technology, but the platform did release a statement recently about upgrading its safety standards for browser extensions on YouTube. The company emphasized that these changes were made to protect viewers and creators from cyber attacks like hijacking or data theft.
Despite some users not being bothered by the brief black screens, along with the recent removal of YouTube Vanced and the existing three-strikes policy, it is evident that YouTube is actively trying to steer viewers towards purchasing YouTube Premium for an ad-free experience.
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