To skip ads on YouTube using your TV remote control, you have a few options:
- YouTube Premium: This is the legal and ethical way to skip YouTube ads. With YouTube Premium, you can enjoy an ad-free experience across devices, including your TV. It also allows background play for music and video, as well as offline downloads. The cost varies based on the subscription plan (individual, family, or student) and keep in mind that availability may vary by region.
- Wait a Few Seconds: Most in-stream ads on YouTube videos are short (usually 15 seconds or less). When an ad appears, simply wait for a few seconds until you see the “Skip Ad” button. Then, click it to jump right back to your content.
- Use an Ad Blocker: If you’re not using YouTube Premium, consider using an ad blocker. Extensions like uBlock Origin, Privacy Badger, Ghostery, and Adblock Plus can help block ads while you browse the web.
Install An Ad Blocker On Your TV
Let’s explore a few ways to install an ad blocker on your TV:
- Network-Level Blocking:
- This method blocks ads at the network level, affecting all devices connected to your home network. It’s a powerful solution but requires some setup.
- You’ll need a device (like a Raspberry Pi) running software such as Pi-Hole. Pi-Hole acts as a DNS server and filters out ad requests before they reach your devices.
- Here’s how to set it up:
- Obtain a Raspberry Pi or a similar device.
- Install Pi-Hole on it.
- Configure your router to use the Pi-Hole as the DNS server.
- All devices on your network will now benefit from ad blocking.
- Smart TV Browser Extensions:
- If your smart TV has a web browser (like LG Smart TVs), you can install ad-blocking browser extensions. These extensions work while you browse the internet.
- Look for popular ad blockers like uBlock Origin or Adblock Plus. Check if they are compatible with the web browser on your smart TV.
- YouTube Premium:
- If you primarily watch YouTube on your smart TV, consider subscribing to YouTube Premium. It provides an ad-free experience on the platform and includes additional features like background play and offline downloads.
What Is YouTube Premium?
YouTube Premium, formerly known as YouTube Red, is a paid subscription service that offers several benefits to enhance your YouTube experience:
- Ad-Free Viewing: With YouTube Premium, you can watch YouTube videos without any annoying advertisements. Say goodbye to interruptions during your favorite content!
- Offline Downloads: You can download videos to watch later, even when you’re offline or on the go. This feature is handy for long flights, train rides, or areas with limited internet connectivity.
- Background Play: Imagine listening to your favorite music or podcast on YouTube while using other apps or when your screen is locked. YouTube Premium allows you to play videos in the background, so you don’t miss a beat.
- YouTube Music Ad-Free: In addition to regular YouTube, YouTube Premium also provides an ad-free experience on YouTube Music. You get access to a vast music catalog with over 100 million songs, personalized mixes, and playlists—all without ads.