YouTube On a Roll with New Ads Format, YouTube Music AI Radio: What You Need to Know

Highlights

• YouTube is rolling out a new TV ad format.
• It shows ads when a video is paused.
• YouTube is developing longer unskippable ads and advertiser-branded QR codes.
• YouTube Music launched “Ask Music,” an AI-powered feature.

YouTube has recently started rolling out a new ad format for TV where ads appear when a video is paused. Here’s everything we know.

Multiple users on platforms such as Reddit and X (previously Twitter) have posted screenshots of the new YouTube ad format on TV.

To refresh memory, earlier in May 2024 it was officially announced that the platform would be getting a new ad format. However, the video streaming platform never revealed a release date for the feature.

Screenshot of the Reddit post revealing the new YouTube Ad format posted.

One of the Reddit users posted a screenshot of the TV and mentioned how the paused video in a smaller window with the ad displayed on the side. The screenshots show a Dunkin’ Donuts advertisement.

Most online users were quick to express their disappointment. One user commented on the original post, “It will only get worse and not better.. The difference between forced ads on YouTube on your TV or your phone is night and day. For me, it will only motivate me to not buy premium. But it’s almost getting so annoying I’m considering to stop using YouTube altogether.”

A user on X also posted a screenshot of the new ad format and expressed their disappointment.

Seriously @YouTube? You’re putting up ads when you pause a video now?

I am about to install a computer in place of the fire stick so I can have an ad blocker… Your ads are getting ridiculous. pic.twitter.com/OT4JMduGTU

— RoÆther (@Roaether) September 6, 2024

The ad format screenshots shared online by different users reveal that the UI puts the video in a smaller block with the ad off to the right side of the screen.

A “Dismiss” button also appears below the ad along with an “info” icon next to it.

In addition to this, it was also revealed in a 9to5Google report that YouTube is working on new ad options, including longer unskippable ads and advertiser-branded QR codes.

These are presumably aimed at expanding the platform’s advertising capabilities and user engagement.

YouTube Music’s “Ask Music” is Here

Caption – “Ask Music” is an AI prompt-based conversational radio. (Image Credit – 9to5Google)

In another 9to5Google report, it is revealed that YouTube Music has introduced a new AI feature called “Ask Music.”

Fullscreen chat UI appears with accepted prompts on “Ask Music” (Screenshot credit – 9to5Google)

As per the report, this AI-enabled feature allows users to create custom radio stations based on specific prompts such as “80s-inspired indie” or “Dreamy synthpop.”

Caption – Ask Music’s tagline is “Turn any idea into a custom radio.” (Screenshot credit – 9to5Google)

This tool is only available to YouTube Premium members as of now.

The feature generates playlists in response to user queries and is currently available on Android devices.

YouTube is believed to be expanding “Ask Music” international availability, starting with Canada and Australia.

FAQs

What is YouTube Music?

YouTube Music is a music streaming service that offers official albums, playlists, singles, and music videos. It provides personalized recommendations based on your listening habits.

Can I use YouTube Music offline?

Yes, with a YouTube Music Premium subscription, you can download songs and playlists to listen offline.

How do I create a playlist on YouTube Music?

To create a playlist, go to the YouTube Music app, find the song you want to add, tap the three-dot menu next to it, and select “Add to playlist.” You can create a new playlist or add it to an existing one.

 What are skippable in-stream ads on YouTube?

Skippable in-stream ads are video ads that play before, during, or after other videos on YouTube. Viewers can skip these ads after 5 seconds.

 How much is the YouTube Premium plan in India?

YouTube Premium offers several subscription plans in India:

• Individual Monthly Plan: ₹159 per month.
• Family Plan: ₹299 per month, which allows up to five family members to use the service.
• Student Plan: ₹89 per month, available to eligible students.
• Annual Plan: ₹1,490 per year.-

What are YouTube Premium Plans In India as per August 2024?

As of August 2024, the YouTube Premium plans in India are:

Individual plan: Rs 149 per month
Family plan: Rs 299 per month
Student plan: Rs 89 per month
Annual Individual Prepaid: Rs 1,490
Quarterly Individual Prepaid: Rs 459
Monthly Individual Prepaid: Rs 159

These YouTube subscription prices apply to both new and existing subscribers. Once subscribed, YouTube Premium offers ad-free viewing, background play, and offline playback.

Notably, keeps Background play on by default for YouTube, YouTube Music, and YouTube Kids, but users can turn it off in your settings.

Also Read: YouTube is making it difficult for you to skip ads with its New Design

Also Read: YouTube will not Show Videos on the users Homepage if the Watch History is Off