Ways to Reduce YouTube Ads on Your iPad
Are YouTube ads popping up every few minutes on your iPad? It can get pretty frustrating! Luckily, there are straightforward ways to minimise those interruptions. Trying out these tips should make binge-watching a lot more enjoyable.
How to Block YouTube Advertisements on iPad
Fending off ads on YouTube can really change the way you watch. Whether it’s using particular apps or adjusting some browser settings, there are a few options to consider. Here are some user-friendly methods that might just help you say goodbye to those pesky ads.
Pick a Reliable Ad Blocker App
The first step is to download a solid ad blocker from the App Store. Popular options like AdGuard or AdBlock are well-loved for their effectiveness and simplicity. Just search for your favourite, download, and follow the setup instructions. Pretty easy, isn’t it?
Configure Your Ad Blocker for YouTube
Once installed, it’s important to set it up correctly for blocking YouTube ads. Open your ad blocker, then enable it in Safari’s Content Blockers settings.
Allow any necessary permissions and toggle the relevant switches. Getting your ad blocker to filter correctly shouldn’t be complicated, but it’s worth checking those settings.
Watch YouTube via Safari Instead of the App
The YouTube app tends to serve up ads more aggressively. Switching to Safari can be a game-changer. Just head straight to the YouTube website, and your ad blocker can do its thing at the browser level. Adding YouTube to your home screen can speed things up—just tap Share > Add to Home Screen.
Consider YouTube Premium for a Seamless Experience
If third-party blockers aren’t doing the trick, signing up for YouTube Premium might be the best option. You can subscribe directly through the app or website by:
- Opening the YouTube app
- Tapping the profile icon in the top right corner
- Selecting Get YouTube Premium
- Following the prompts to subscribe — straightforward!
This not only removes ads but also offers benefits like offline viewing and background play.
Try DNS-Based Ad Blocking
If you’re comfortable with a bit of tech, setting up a DNS service that blocks ads could provide broader coverage. Using services like AdGuard DNS works at the network level to filter out ads across all apps and browsers. To give it a shot:
- Go to Settings > Wi-Fi
- Tap the i icon next to your network
- Scroll down to Configure DNS and select Manual
- Tap Add Server and enter these DNS addresses for AdGuard DNS:
94.140.14.14
and94.140.15.15
- Save your settings and reconnect to your Wi-Fi — enjoy a more ad-free browsing experience!
Tips for Running YouTube with Fewer Ads on Your iPad
- Keep Your Ad Blocker Updated: Regularly check the App Store > Updates for updates, as ad tactics evolve and your blocker needs to stay current.
- Test Your Blocker Periodically: Sometimes, ads sneak through, especially after iOS updates, so it’s good to verify your blocker still works from time to time.
- Clear Your Browser Cache: For smoother performance, go to Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data.
- Try Different DNS Options: If one DNS service isn’t cutting it, other options like NextDNS or Cloudflare with Family Protection might do better.
- Add Browser Extensions (if supported): If using browsers like Firefox for iOS, look into ad-blocking extensions for extra coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blocking YouTube Ads on iPad
Can I block ads directly in the YouTube app?
Most ad blockers don’t work well with the official YouTube app because of platform restrictions. The most reliable way is to block ads through Safari or go for a Premium subscription.
Are free ad blockers any good?
They can do the job for occasional use, but premium options often include advanced features worth considering if you spend a lot of time on YouTube.
Will ad blockers slow down my iPad?
Generally, they won’t impact performance much, but it depends on how efficient the app is and the specs of your device.
Do ad blockers catch all ads?
Not always. While they’re pretty good at blocking most ads, some might still slip through, especially if they’re embedded in videos or use clever workarounds.
Is using an ad blocker on my iPad legal?
Yes, in most cases it’s legal. Just bear in mind that ad blockers can affect content creators who rely on ad revenue.
A Few Tips for a Better YouTube Experience
- Download a trusted ad blocker from the App Store.
- Set it up in Safari’s Content Blockers for optimal performance.
- Use Safari instead of the app when watching YouTube.
- Subscribe to YouTube Premium to avoid ads altogether.
- Switch your DNS settings for broader ad blocking at the network level.
Applying these tips can really improve your YouTube viewing experience on the iPad, making it more enjoyable without constant interruptions. Whether you choose to install an ad blocker, tweak your settings, or go premium, there are plenty of options to explore. Staying updated with new tools and updates makes it easier to keep those ads at bay as they evolve.
Just some handy strategies to help fellow YouTube fans enjoy their time without the ad interruptions.