DuckDuckGo has introduced a new feature that blocks YouTube video ads by default on its browser for iOS, Windows and macOS, offering users an alternative to YouTube Premium as Google continues tightening restrictions on ad blockers.
The privacy-focused browser announced that the feature is now enabled by default on iOS, Windows and macOS. Android users can also access the feature by manually enabling it in the browser's settings, while DuckDuckGo said it plans to make it the default option on Android in a future update.
The company said the feature relies on community-maintained filter lists from uBlock Origin, allowing it to keep pace with Google's evolving advertising system.
Works only inside DuckDuckGo browser
DuckDuckGo clarified that YouTube videos must be opened within its browser for the feature to work. It does not remove advertisements from the official YouTube app.
Users experiencing playback issues can temporarily disable ad blocking by tapping the video icon beside the browser's green shield in the address bar or selecting Disable YouTube Ad Blocking from the browser menu.
If ad blocking is disabled during playback, DuckDuckGo prompts users to submit an error report to help improve compatibility.
Android users can enable it manually
Android users can activate the feature by following these steps:
- Open the DuckDuckGo browser
- Go to Settings
- Select Ad Blocking
- Turn on YouTube Ad Blocking
The company advised users to update the app through the Google Play Store if the option is not yet visible.
Alternative to YouTube Premium
The move comes as YouTube continues expanding its efforts to discourage ad blockers and encourage subscriptions to YouTube Premium and Premium Lite.
DuckDuckGo said its browser provides users who do not wish to pay for Premium with another way to watch YouTube videos with fewer interruptions, although future changes by YouTube could affect the feature's effectiveness.
