Owned by the world's largest advertising company, Google, YouTube started a war against ad blockers last year, with the aim of pushing users to subscribe to the paid, ad-free YouTube Premium service.
This strategy seems to have worked, as YouTube Premium subscriptions have seen impressive growth. But, of course, Google's revenue engine demands more, so the company recently increased YouTube Premium prices significantly in most of its operating countries.
Now, however, it seems Google may be compromising on YouTube Premium's core selling point.
On social media, there has been an increasing number of comments from disgruntled YouTube Premium subscribers reporting that ads are being shown to them as well.
One user decided to reach out to YouTube support for an explanation, and indeed received a response to their question. So, why is Google showing ads to "ad-free" YouTube Premium subscribers?
Support also reminded users that their subscription includes YouTube Music Premium - so there's no need to worry, even if some ads appear alongside videos.
On Reddit, one commenter even suggested accepting the situation, as these are not typical ads but rather slightly better, "premium-quality" ads.
Note: Obviously YouTube Premium shows significantly less ads that the traditional, free version of YouTube. At least, for now.
Now, however, it seems Google may be compromising on YouTube Premium's core selling point.
On social media, there has been an increasing number of comments from disgruntled YouTube Premium subscribers reporting that ads are being shown to them as well.
One user decided to reach out to YouTube support for an explanation, and indeed received a response to their question. So, why is Google showing ads to "ad-free" YouTube Premium subscribers?
While YouTube Premium provides an ad-free experience for most content, promotional ads can sometimes appear for specific partnerships or limited-time offers.
These promotions are often targeted based on various factors, including your location, viewing history and account settings.
Support also reminded users that their subscription includes YouTube Music Premium - so there's no need to worry, even if some ads appear alongside videos.
On Reddit, one commenter even suggested accepting the situation, as these are not typical ads but rather slightly better, "premium-quality" ads.
Note: Obviously YouTube Premium shows significantly less ads that the traditional, free version of YouTube. At least, for now.
