Weekly Prompt: YouTube’s live stream picture-in-picture ads and more

YouTube tests less disruptive picture-in-picture ads for live streams

YouTube is testing a new ad format designed to be less disruptive during live streams. The platform's "Picture-in-Picture Live Mid-Rolls" will allow ads to play in a small window while live content continues in the background, preventing the interruptions typically caused by full-screen ads. This trial, which will initially be available to some viewers on select devices, marks a shift from the current ad model that momentarily halts live streams for mid-roll ads.

According to YouTube, this change is part of ongoing efforts to improve user experience during live broadcasts. Previously, the company tested mid-roll ads with countdown timers and delay options, allowing streamers to better manage when ads appeared. However, these methods still interrupted the flow of the content.

The new picture-in-picture format is expected to allow streamers to continue generating revenue without losing viewers’ attention. YouTube reports that creators who have adopted automated mid-roll ads have seen a more than 20% increase in in-stream ad revenue per hour, suggesting that the new format could be beneficial for content creators.

This move comes as YouTube Live has been gaining popularity, with a recent report showing a 20.5% increase in viewership over the last quarter. As YouTube competes with other streaming platforms like Twitch, these less intrusive ads could help the platform maintain and grow its audience.

Sources: MediaPost, Social Media Today, Zdnet

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