Several Google YouTube users are struggling to access comment sections under videos. The problem appears connected to the platform's ongoing battle against ad blocking software, with reports flooding Reddit over the past few days.
What's Happening
Users report that comments simply won't load beneath videos. For some, the video description section also disappears. The issue affects both desktop and mobile browsers, though the exact scope remains unclear.
Reddit threads show frustrated users sharing screenshots of blank comment sections. "Description and comments missing from all videos," one user reported. Others confirmed the same behavior across multiple devices and browsers.
Workarounds and Solutions
People have tried various fixes. Refreshing the page occasionally works, suggesting this could be a server-side issue. However, the most reliable solution users have found is disabling their ad blocker entirely.
This pattern matches previous anti-adblock campaigns from Google. The company has steadily increased pressure on users running ad blocking extensions, often breaking site functionality until blockers are turned off.
Premium Users Also Affected
Here's where it gets interesting. Some YouTube Premium subscribers report the same comment loading failures. This is unusual because Google typically exempts paying customers from anti-adblock measures.
Previously, when YouTube implemented stricter ad detection, Premium users avoided the restrictions. This time, the collateral damage suggests either a technical bug or a broader rollout affecting all users regardless of subscription status.
Recent Platform Changes
This isn't Google's only recent move to push users toward Premium subscriptions. The company recently closed background playback loopholes that free users relied on. This feature now requires a Premium subscription.
YouTube Music also saw restrictions last month. Free users can now view only five song lyrics per month before hitting a paywall. YouTube Music limits free users to 5 song lyrics views reflects Google's strategy of reducing free tier benefits.
Current Status
Testing with Chrome and uBlock Origin Lite showed no issues on a Premium account, even when signed out. This suggests the rollout may be regional or still in progress. Not all users encounter the problem simultaneously.
Google hasn't officially acknowledged the comment loading issue. The company rarely comments on anti-adblock measures, preferring to implement changes quietly and let users adapt.
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