Google renews its assault on YouTube ad blockers

Back in 2022, YouTube Vanced had to leave the scene due to Google's actions. Since then, Google has never stopped fighting against any means of blocking YouTube ads, although the topic has been dormant for most of the time. Now, the "Google vs. YouTube ad blocking" case is back. Without pointing fingers at any app or service in particular, Google says that those who use YouTube frontends and third-party apps capable of avoiding the ads normally delivered by the platform should get ready to stop blocking ads or just subscribe to YouTube Premium instead.

As part of Google's effort to strengthen enforcement on apps that violate YouTube's Terms of Service, "Viewers who are using these third-party apps may experience buffering issues or see the error “The following content is not available on this app” when trying to watch a video." Google highlights that turning off ads prevents the creators from being rewarded for their views. Obviously, the creator shares the revenue with Google.

Subscribing to YouTube Premium can be done starting at $7.99 for students and all the way up to $22.99 per month for families. These prices are valid for the US market and will be different in other areas. In Romania, for example, the family plan (for up to 5 members aged 13+) can be acquired for about $8 per month. Depending on the market, an annual subscription might be available as well. In this case, US customers can save about 15%, thus paying $139.99. Sadly, early cancellations of such a plan do not come with partial refunds.

Those looking for a streaming device with YouTube support and more can currently grab the Google Chromecast (HD Version) for $49.95 instead of $54.99 off Amazon thanks to a 9% discount.