What are skippable ads?

Skippable ads, also known as TrueView ads, are a type of YouTube video ad format that gives viewers the option to skip the ad after a few seconds, typically after five seconds. These ads appear before, during, or after YouTube videos and allow viewers to choose whether they want to watch the full ad or skip it and proceed to the video content they originally intended to watch.

Here are some key features of skippable ads:

1. **Option to Skip**: Skippable ads include a countdown timer that allows viewers to skip the ad after the first five seconds. Viewers have the choice to skip the ad and proceed to the video content if they are not interested in watching the full ad.

2. **Cost-Effective**: Advertisers are only charged when viewers watch at least 30 seconds of the ad or interact with the ad, such as clicking on a call-to-action overlay or companion banner. If viewers skip the ad before the 30-second mark, advertisers are not charged for the view.

3. **Engagement Options**: Skippable ads can include interactive elements such as call-to-action overlays, companion banners, and end screens that encourage viewers to engage with the ad content or take specific actions, such as visiting a website or making a purchase.

4. **Customizable Length**: Skippable ads can vary in length, ranging from a few seconds to several minutes. Advertisers have the flexibility to create ad content that fits their messaging goals and target audience preferences.

5. **Placement**: Skippable ads can appear before, during, or after YouTube videos, depending on the ad placement settings chosen by advertisers. They are commonly used as pre-roll ads that play before the main video content.

6. **Targeting Options**: Advertisers can target their skippable ads to specific demographics, interests, keywords, and remarketing audiences to reach their target audience effectively on YouTube.

Skippable ads offer advertisers a cost-effective and flexible way to reach and engage their target audience on YouTube while providing viewers with control over their viewing experience. By creating compelling and relevant ad content, advertisers can capture viewers' attention and encourage them to watch the full ad, interact with the ad content, and take desired actions, ultimately driving brand awareness, consideration, and conversions.