Some Edge users on Windows 11 can’t watch YouTube videos. This is because Google blocks them if they use strict tracking protection in their browser. Google thinks this mode is an ad blocker and asks them to disable it or let YouTube show ads.
In this article, we will explain what Microsoft Edge’s strict tracking protection mode is, how and why Google Blocks YouTube videos in Microsoft Edge users with this mode, what are the implications of this situation, and how you can avoid it.
What is Microsoft Edge’s Strict Tracking Protection Mode?
In Windows 11, Microsoft Edge is the default browser, equipped with a built-in feature called tracking prevention. This feature safeguards you from online tracking by websites and third-party services, by blocking or reducing data requests that gather info about your online activity, preferences, behavior, and identity. This data is often utilized to personalize ads, content, recommendations, and to gauge your online engagement and performance.
Microsoft Edge’s tracking prevention offers three protection levels. The Basic level permits most trackers but blocks harmful ones. Balanced, the default setting, blocks trackers on unfamiliar sites but allows some on frequented ones. The Strict level, the most stringent, blocks the majority of trackers, including those from previously visited sites, potentially affecting content and ads reliant on tracking.
You can choose the level of tracking prevention that suits your needs and preferences in the Microsoft Edge settings. You can also view and manage the list of trackers that are blocked or allowed by the browser. You can also customize the tracking prevention settings for specific websites by adding them to the exceptions list.
How does Google Blocks YouTube Videos in Microsoft Edge?
Google utilizes this data for personalized ads, content, and recommendations across its services and partner websites. It also relies on this information for performance analysis. While Google asserts that its tracking and advertising practices benefit users and advertisers, not everyone concurs, as some find them invasive or privacy-threatening.
Some users opt for ad blockers or similar tools to curb Google’s tracking. Microsoft Edge’s strict tracking protection mode is one such tool, which hinders Google from tracking your online activity and displaying personalized ads on Microsoft Edge. This, however, has led to countermeasures by Google, preventing users in this mode from watching YouTube videos.
If you attempt to play a YouTube video in Microsoft Edge with strict tracking protection, you might see a message blocking playback, suggesting you disable your ad blocker. The message emphasizes that ads support global access to YouTube and also presents the option of subscribing to YouTube Premium for an ad-free, enhanced experience.
Why does Google Block YouTube Videos for Edge Users?
Google Blocks YouTube videos in Microsoft Edge users with strict tracking protection because it views this mode as an ad-blocker, which it believes violates YouTube’s Terms of Service. These terms explicitly state that users should access content for personal, non-commercial use, following the Service’s intended and permitted functionality, primarily for streaming without the intention of downloading, copying, storing, or redistributing the material.
According to Google, when you use Microsoft Edge’s strict tracking protection mode to watch YouTube videos, you are accessing the content for a reason other than your personal, non-commercial use solely as intended through and permitted by the normal functionality of the service. You are also blocking or limiting the ads that enable global access to YouTube and support content creators. Therefore, you are violating YouTube’s Terms of Service and Google has the right to block you from watching YouTube videos.
What are the Implications of Google Blocks YouTube Videos in Microsoft Edge users with Strict Tracking Protection?
Google’s decision to block YouTube videos for Edge users with strict tracking protection carries several significant implications for both users and Google itself. For privacy-conscious users, this move may be perceived as an aggressive attempt by Google to compel them to accept its tracking and advertising practices or subscribe to its premium services. It could lead these users to feel that their rights and choices as online consumers and citizens are being violated.
For those who regularly enjoy YouTube content, this action may cause inconvenience and frustration, disrupting their entertainment and educational experiences. They might view Google as depriving them of access to a valuable and beloved service they rely on. From Google’s perspective, this move can be seen as a strategic measure to safeguard its advertising business and revenue by preventing potential customer and advertiser attrition. Google might argue that blocking YouTube videos for Edge users with strict tracking protection is consistent with its Terms of Service and offers an alternative for ad-free viewing.
How can Edge Users Avoid Google Blocking YouTube Videos?
In your Microsoft Edge settings, you have the option to deactivate the strict tracking protection mode and opt for either the balanced or basic level of protection. By doing so, you permit Google to track your online activities and deliver personalized ads on its services and partner websites. However, it’s essential to be aware that this choice comes at the expense of your online privacy and security.
You can use another browser that does not have a strict tracking protection mode or that does not trigger Google’s anti ad-block feature on YouTube. This will enable you to watch YouTube videos without any problems. However, this will also require you to switch browsers and may not offer the same features or benefits as Microsoft Edge.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, Google Blocks YouTube videos in Microsoft Edge users with strict tracking protection mode because it considers this mode as an ad blocker that violates YouTube’s Terms of Service. This situation has implications for both users and Google, as it affects their rights, choices, experiences, and revenues. Edge users who want to avoid Google blocking YouTube videos have several options to choose from, but each option has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Google Blocks YouTube videos in Microsoft Edge with Strict Protection Mode