YouTube to Downgrade Video Quality for Apps that Block Ads, Citing Terms Violation

YouTube will intentionally degrade video playback in third-party apps that block ads, saying it violates terms of service.

This is to ensure creators get paid for views and enable YouTube's ad-supported business model. YouTube offers an ad-free Premium option.

The changes target the YouTube API used by third-party video apps like FreeTube, LibreTube, and Piped.

Last year YouTube interfered with Firefox over ad blocking extensions, prompting a privacy complaint.

49% of Americans are more willing to use ad blockers due to Google's anti ad-blocking efforts, though FBI recommends using them.