YouTube is now showing ads up to three hours long without a skip option, leaving many users frustrated. Reports on Reddit reveal that these ads target users who have ad blockers enabled.
Screenshots shared online show ads ranging from 57 minutes to 3 hours. In one case, the ad was three times longer than the video itself. Some users noticed a “Skipping ads” message under the video, which may indicate interference from ad blockers.
YouTube confirmed to Android Authority that these long ads are aimed at viewers using ad blockers. Regular users still have the option to skip ads after 15 seconds.
“YouTube relies on ads to support creators and grow their businesses,” the company stated. “Ad blockers violate our Terms of Use. We encourage viewers to enable ads or try YouTube Premium to avoid interruptions.”
This move is part of YouTube’s broader efforts to combat ad blockers, including showing ads during pauses and prompting users to subscribe to YouTube Premium. In some regions, the subscription price has increased by up to 50%. However, prices in Ukraine remain unchanged.
The platform’s strict stance on ad blockers is sparking mixed reactions online, with some praising the push for fairness and others criticizing the extreme ad lengths.
