What is a Skippable in-stream ad?

A skippable in-stream ad is a type of video advertisement that appears before, during, or after a video on platforms like YouTube. Unlike non-skippable ads, which require viewers to watch the entire ad before accessing the main video content, skippable in-stream ads give viewers the option to skip the ad after a few seconds and proceed directly to the desired video content.

Key characteristics of skippable in-stream ads include:

1. **Length**: Skippable in-stream ads can vary in length, but they typically range from 5 to 30 seconds. Advertisers have the flexibility to create longer ads, but viewers are given the option to skip them after the first few seconds.

2. **Content**: Skippable in-stream ads can contain a variety of content, including product promotions, brand messaging, trailers, or other forms of advertising content.

3. **Placement**: Skippable in-stream ads are placed within the video player of the hosting platform and are played before, during, or after the main video content.

4. **Viewability**: Viewers have the option to skip skippable in-stream ads after a predetermined period, usually five seconds. If viewers choose to skip the ad, advertisers are not charged for the view, making skippable ads a more cost-effective option compared to non-skippable ads.

Skippable in-stream ads offer advertisers a balance between capturing viewer attention and respecting their preferences. While viewers have the choice to skip the ad if they're not interested, advertisers still have the opportunity to deliver their message to a wide audience and drive desired outcomes. Additionally, because advertisers are only charged for completed views, skippable in-stream ads can provide better value for ad spend compared to non-skippable ads.