YouTube brings side-by-side ads to mobile livestreams

YouTube has introduced a new way of showing ads during livestreams on mobile devices. The platform is now rolling out a side-by-side ad format, where the livestream continues playing while an advertisement appears alongside it.

Unlike traditional ads that interrupt the stream completely, this new format allows users to keep watching the video. However, the livestream audio is muted during the ad, meaning you can see what’s happening but cannot hear it until the ad ends.

Livestream ads without full-screen interruption

Previously, YouTube ads during livestreams would fully interrupt the viewing experience, causing users to miss important moments. The side-by-side format was designed to solve this issue and was already available on desktop and TV platforms.

Now, YouTube is expanding this feature to mobile devices. The company confirmed the rollout, and users may start noticing it more widely in the coming weeks.

How the new ad format works

In this format, the livestream remains visible on part of the screen while the ad plays next to it. This keeps users visually connected to the stream even during ad breaks. However, audio from the livestream is paused until the ad finishes.

This approach balances user experience with ad visibility, ensuring viewers do not completely miss live content while still engaging with advertisements.

Who will see these ads

According to YouTube, this ad format will automatically appear on livestreams where creators have enabled automatic mid-roll ads. It is part of YouTube’s broader monetization system for content creators.

How to avoid ads

Users who want an ad-free experience can subscribe to YouTube Premium. There is also a more affordable Lite plan that removes ads from most videos for a monthly fee.

Overall, this update shows YouTube’s shift toward less disruptive advertising while maintaining revenue opportunities for creators.