The inability to bypass promotional content on the video-sharing platform represents a disruption in the user experience. This situation occurs when pre-roll, mid-roll, or banner advertisements are presented without a “Skip Ad” option after a designated time. An example of this is a user attempting to view a video and being forced to watch a 30-second advertisement in its entirety before the desired content becomes accessible.
The enforced viewing of advertising content plays a critical role in the platform’s revenue generation. The viewing of advertising content sustains the platform’s infrastructure and supports content creators through revenue-sharing programs. Historically, the prevalence of skippable advertisements was more common; however, strategic shifts have led to an increase in non-skippable ads to maximize advertising revenue.