Google says YouTube video skipping issue with ad blockers is a performance update, not a crackdown

Over the past few days, many YouTube users, especially those who use ad blockers, have experienced a peculiar issue: videos automatically skipping to the end. This has led to speculation about YouTube’s new stance on ad blockers and whether this is a deliberate attempt to discourage their use. However, YouTube has clarified the situation.In a statement to 9to5Google, YouTube attributed this behavior to a recent push to improve the platform’s overall performance and reliability. This initiative, they say, is unrelated to their ongoing efforts to curb the use of ad blockers. While this change may inadvertently affect the viewing experience for those using ad blockers, it’s not a direct consequence of YouTube’s ad blocker crackdown. This is the exact quote:

While the recent video skipping issue may have raised concerns among ad blocker users, it seems to be a side effect of a performance update rather than a direct action against ad blockers. As YouTube continues to evolve, finding ways to balance the needs of all parties involved will remain a major challenge.