YouTube acknowledges and addresses drops in view counts that appear to stem from the use of ad blockers.
In recent weeks, a number of YouTube creators have observed a significant drop in their video view counts, particularly on computers. This trend was first hinted at by left-wing YouTuber Rezo, and has since been reported by other creators such as Josh Strife Hayes and channels within the Linus Tech Tips family, including TechLinked.
One theory suggesting an explanation for this view count slowdown is the impact of ad blockers on the accuracy of reported view counts. YouTube has hinted at this possibility, stating that ad blockers and other extensions can potentially affect the way view counts are recorded. This comes after YouTube's war on ad blockers earlier this year, which may have given more justification to the widespread use of ad blockers on the platform.
However, YouTube has adamantly denied that its new AI-powered age verification tools are causing the drop in view counts. Furthermore, the article does not provide any new information about the denial of any systemic issue impacting creators regarding lower view counts.
It is worth noting that views on TV, phones, and tablets have remained steady, suggesting that the issue may be predominantly affecting computer users. The "EasyList" ad blocker tool was updated on August 11 to prevent YouTube from counting views on videos, as noted by YouTuber @ThioJoe. Another YouTuber, Jeff Geerling, explained that users can manually fix the problem so their views are counted.
Google has stated that channels whose audiences include a higher proportion of users utilizing such tools may see more fluctuations in traffic related to updates to these tools. This could potentially explain the discrepancies in view counts observed by creators.
In a separate development, YouTube has rolled out new profanity guidelines for creators, aiming to improve the platform's content recommendations. The company is also addressing issues with recommending awful videos, providing a solution to fix this issue.
Additionally, YouTube for Android TV and Google TV now allows users to test new features in beta, offering creators and viewers a glimpse into potential future updates. Despite these changes, YouTube maintains that there is no systemic issue that is impacting creators regarding lower view counts.
As the investigation into this matter continues, creators and viewers alike remain hopeful for a resolution to the view count discrepancies and a return to normal viewing statistics.
