In recent months, YouTube has intensified its efforts to combat adblocker usage among its users, causing frustration for many. Initially, YouTube implemented messages urging users to deactivate their adblockers, with persistent prompts hindering video playback unless adblockers were disabled. This led numerous users to either uninstall their adblockers or seek alternative solutions. However, a new issue emerged this week, YouTube videos are suddenly skipping to their conclusion for a significant portion of users utilizing adblockers. Regardless of attempts to restart the video or play it again, it swiftly advances to the end.
This peculiar behaviour predominantly affects users with active adblockers, as disabling them restores normal video playback without disruptions. Furthermore, users have noted that attempting to navigate to specific segments within a video results in extended loading times. Consequently, there is speculation among users that YouTube may be intentionally implementing these measures to discourage adblocker usage. While this theory is plausible, it is also conceivable that the issue originates from the adblocker software itself.
Pre-Existing Problem That Became Worse
Earlier this year, a glitch in AdBlock led to slow video loading and increased strain on devices accessing YouTube. During that period, many users pointed fingers at YouTube, assuming the platform was to blame for the issue. Interestingly, the majority of users currently facing this new problem are those using AdBlock, whereas individuals utilizing alternative adblockers have not reported similar issues. Although there are a few isolated cases of this issue occurring without any adblocker, they represent a tiny fraction of affected users.
For those encountering these challenges, the frustration is tangible. Videos abruptly skipping to the end or getting stuck in continuous loading cycles severely hinder the usability of the platform. This predicament forces users into a dilemma: either deactivate their adblockers, exposing themselves to unwanted ads and compromising their viewing experience, or switch to a different adblocker devoid of such issues.
In summary, the root cause of this problem—whether deliberately caused by YouTube or stemming from specific adblockers—remains uncertain. What remains evident is that users find themselves caught in the crossfire between YouTube and adblockers, resulting in disrupted viewing sessions. Presently, disabling the adblocker appears to be the most viable solution, although users should remain vigilant for potential updates or remedies addressing this issue moving forward.