DuckDuckGo's browser has now started blocking the YouTube ads that users dislike.
DuckDuckGo introduces a YouTube ad blocking feature similar to Brave
DuckDuckGo has recently gained renewed interest as many users seek alternatives to Google’s increasingly AI-driven Search experience. The privacy-centric company is now rolling out a feature that could enhance its browser's appeal for everyday users. DuckDuckGo announces that its browser can now block the majority of video advertisements, including those on YouTube, while videos are being played within the browser.
What’s happening?
According to DuckDuckGo, the new system for detecting and blocking YouTube ads relies on open-source community filter lists from uBlock Origin. The company may also implement its own rules to improve the feature’s effectiveness within its browser.
This feature will be enabled by default for most DuckDuckGo users on iPhone, Windows, and Mac. Android users will receive the same default setting soon, although they can currently enable it manually through the browser settings menu. Users across all platforms can also toggle YouTube ad blocking on or off in the settings.
DuckDuckGo
There is one restriction to note. The ad blocking feature will only function when watching YouTube videos inside the DuckDuckGo browser since it cannot block ads within the official YouTube app.
Better timing than ever
DuckDuckGo is introducing this feature at a particularly opportune moment. The company experienced a surge in interest after Google announced significant AI changes to its Search, including AI Overviews and a more conversational AI Mode. DuckDuckGo has been promoting itself as the alternative browser and search engine that empowers users with more control over their AI experience.
The capability to block video ads gives DuckDuckGo a tangible daily advantage. Brave has advocated for this for years by blocking ads by default across the web, including on YouTube, which has clearly resonated with users. The Brave browser recently surpassed 120 million monthly active users.
DuckDuckGo is now heading in a similar direction while being transparent about the trade-offs. The company cautions that users might experience longer buffering times and occasional glitches. Nonetheless, for those frustrated by video ads and Google's AI initiatives, DuckDuckGo just became a significantly more appealing choice.
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DuckDuckGo's browser has now started blocking the YouTube ads that users dislike.
DuckDuckGo's browser is now capable of blocking most video advertisements on YouTube, although users might experience increased buffering times or occasional glitches.