In an unexpected twist, YouTube skipping videos to the end has become the latest hurdle for users relying on adblockers. This phenomenon, which has surfaced in recent months, disrupts video playback by abruptly jumping to the video’s conclusion. While some suspect this is YouTube’s tactic to push users towards its Premium service, others argue it might be an unintended glitch in the adblockers themselves.
YouTube is skipping videos to the end for AdBlock users, but why?
For many users with an adblocker employed, YouTube skipping videos to the end of the content has become a sudden issue.
Over the past few months, YouTube has been enforcing its rule against the use of adblockers. This started last year when the platform began displaying messages instructing users to disable their adblockers, leading to videos being blocked if the prompt was ignored. As a result, many users uninstalled their adblockers, while some discovered clever workarounds.
This week, many have noticed that YouTube skipping videos straight to the end of the video is happening more frequently. Even if the video is replayed, it skips straight to the end almost immediately. This strange phenomenon seems to occur only for users with an adblocker installed. When the blocker is disabled, everything works as normal.
Many believe that YouTube skipping videos to the end is an intentional move to discourage adblocker use. While this is entirely possible, it is equally plausible that the issue stems from the adblocker itself.
Earlier this year, an issue with AdBlock led videos to load slowly and putting extra strain on devices. When users first noticed this problem, many blamed YouTube. It’s clear that those facing this new issue are primarily using AdBlock, while users of other adblockers aren’t seeing the same behavior. Instances of this problem without an adblocker are extremely rare.
Back in October, YouTube highlighted that using ad-blockers breached its terms of service and hindered creators from earning revenue. By January, Google had implemented a new strategy, slowing down the load times of YouTube videos unless the ad-blocker was turned off. Now, approaching June, Google’s latest action involves YouTube skipping videos to the end if an ad-blocker is detected. Disabling the ad-blocker will allow the full video to play.
A Reddit user, SDHD4K, shared a short clip showing how a YouTube video he tried to watch skipped straight to the end because of the ad blocker on his phone. Not all users with ad-blocking software face the same issue; some Redditors have noted that while their videos play, they do so without audio until the ad blocker is disabled. Adjusting the volume slider brings the sound back momentarily before muting again.
New Youtube adblock weird behaviour – video automatically skips to the end
byu/SDHD4K inyoutube
How to fix YouTube skipping videos?
The streaming platform is committed to its ad-supported revenue model and wants to ensure that the only way to avoid ads is by opting for a Premium membership. However, determined users have discovered several workarounds to address the issue of YouTube skipping videos.
One effective solution mentioned in Reddit threads is using extensions like uBlock Origin, which continue to work as intended. Additionally, some users have found success with plugins such as Ad Speedup, which can automatically accelerate ads on YouTube by up to 16x, reducing the wait time significantly.
Another method involves using a VPN and setting your location to Albania, where YouTube ads are not currently supported due to the lack of Google’s ad platform in the Albanian language. This loophole has been tested and confirmed to work on both mobile and desktop devices.
Is YouTube Premium worth it?
YouTube Premium offers an ad-free experience, background play, offline downloads, and access to YouTube Music. For frequent users of YouTube who find ads disruptive, or who value the ability to download videos for offline viewing, it can be worth the investment. Additionally, the included YouTube Music subscription provides a comprehensive music streaming service, adding further value.
How much is YouTube Premium?
The primary plan for individuals costs $13.99 per month when subscribing online or via an Android device. However, iOS users are charged $18.99 monthly if they subscribe through the YouTube app on their iPhone or iPad, as YouTube passes along Apple’s fee for in-app transactions. Apple users can avoid this higher price by subscribing directly on the YouTube website instead of through the app.
YouTube also offers an annual subscription at $139.99, providing roughly a 15% discount. However, if you cancel early, there is no partial refund for the annual fee.
The family plan costs $22.99 per month and allows 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.
The most affordable option is the student plan, which includes one free month and then costs $7.99 per month. This plan is for students enrolled in higher education, has a four-year cap, and requires annual verification of eligibility.
Featured image credit: Javier Miranda/Unsplash
