Reports of unusually long, unskippable advertisements on YouTube are emerging across social media platforms. Multiple users have documented ad lengths ranging from nearly one hour to several hours. 

In documented cases shared on Reddit, users are encountering advertisements that far exceed typical durations. Reddit user Lin1ex provided evidence of an unskippable advertisement spanning 58 minutes, while user Standard-Slip6572 shared visual proof of a more extreme case: a two-hour and 52-minute advertisement that preceded a video less than one-third that length at 49 minutes.

The pattern extends beyond isolated incidents, with multiple users reporting similar experiences across different regions and devices. While some unverified claims mention even longer durations—including alleged encounters with 10-hour and 90-hour advertisements—the verified reports alone represent a departure from YouTube’s standard advertising practices.

Android Authority’s technical analysis of user reports suggests a potential correlation between ad blocker usage and extended advertisement experiences. Screenshots shared by users reveal interface elements indicating potential ad blocker interference, including instances where skip buttons appear to be present but non-functional. 

This has led to speculation whether these extended advertisements represent an intentional response to ad-blocking software rather than a platform malfunction.

Google Confirms 15-Second Limit for Standard Ads 

In response to Android Authority’s request for a comment, Google has issued a statement confirming that normal non-skippable in-stream advertisements on YouTube are limited to 15 seconds in duration. The company acknowledged an ongoing global effort to address ad blocker usage.

Google’s official statement emphasized the role of advertisements in creator monetization: “Ads are a vital lifeline for our creators that helps them run and grow their businesses. That’s why the use of ad blockers violate YouTube’s Terms of Service.”

The company outlined a graduated response to ad-blocker usage, beginning with user notifications requesting the discontinuation of ad blocking software. For users who continue to employ ad blockers, Google indicates it maintains the right to disable playback functionality as a final measure.

While the tech giant does not explicitly confirm a connection between ad blocker usage and extended advertisement durations, Android Authority notes the timing and nature of these reports align with the platform’s stated efforts to discourage ad blocker adoption.

YouTube offers users two official options for advertisement-free viewing: discontinuing ad blocker usage or subscribing to YouTube Premium.