Previously, YouTube had only displayed pop-up reminders to ad-blocking users, reminding them that such actions violated the platform’s terms of service. However, in an attempt to maximize their impact, YouTube added a timer to the notices, ensuring viewers take the time to read and consider the implications.
A spokesperson from YouTube has confirmed to BleepingComputer that these new alerts are part of an experimental initiative. They explained that the platform is currently conducting a small-scale global experiment, urging viewers with ad blockers enabled to either allow ads on YouTube or consider a YouTube Premium subscription. The spokesperson further clarified that YouTube would only resort to temporarily disabling playback in extreme cases, specifically when viewers persistently ignore repeated requests to allow ads. However, it remains unclear whether YouTube will automatically block playback after three videos or provide viewers with additional opportunities to comply.
