YouTube Introduces Ads on Paused Videos, Sparking User Backlash

The new 'Pause ads' feature aims to offer a less interruptive experience, but many users are frustrated by the increasing number of ads on the platform.

YouTube confirmed the global rollout of 'Pause ads,' which display advertisements when a video is paused.
The new ad format is intended to be seamless and less interruptive, according to a Google spokesperson.
Users have expressed frustration on social media, arguing that the ads are intrusive and add to an already overwhelming ad experience.
YouTube Premium subscribers can avoid these ads, but the service costs $13.99 per month.
The rollout follows successful pilot tests and strong advertiser interest, contributing to YouTube's $31.5 billion ad revenue in 2023.