Say Goodbye to YouTube Ads: Top Solutions for an Ad-Free Experience

Youtube offers monetization on videos in the form of ads which appear and reappear throughout videos with a gap of a few minutes. These ads are just like TV commercials, interrupting videos, making the experience of watching videos on Youtube full of annoying interruptions. Only not-monetised videos do not have ads on them, but quality content on Youtube is mostly monetised.

But you can stop these ads from appearing on videos you want to watch. The following are the best available options, you may choose the most convenient to you, that you can use to make videos ads-free on Youtube:

Use Premium Version of Youtube

Start using the premium version of Youtube if you do not want ads to appear on videos. You can enjoy the first one or two months without paying any money, and reasonable charges would be paid after the first two months.

Follow the steps to subscribe to Youtube Premium:

1) Type Youtube premium on Google and open the link.

2) Click on Try 1 or 2 months for 0 to subscribe for the monthly offer by adding details of your payment method. After your first two months, you will be charged affordable PKR 479 or $1.72 monthly which can be different depending on your location.

uBlock Origin Extension

Available on Google Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge and Opera, uBlock Origin and "Adblock Plus - free ad blocker" extensions block all ads on the web. Add this extension to one of the browsers mentioned, and then follow the following steps to successfully run it to block Youtube ads.

1) Add the extension to your browser by downloading it from your browser web store.

2) Once uBlock Origin extension is added, go to Youtube. Click on the uBlock Origin icon in the address bar. Then open its settings.

3) Then go to Filters Lists to uncheck any customer configuration if it was done by you previously.

4) Disable any other ad blocker running to make uBlock Origin effective.

Because Youtube is regularly updating its anti-ad-blockers script, you must also update the filters of uBlock Origin to remain updated, when required.

5) Go to its Filter Lists and type down ‘quick fixes’ in the search bar. Click on the clock icon just below, and click on Update Now.

Now close your browser and then reopen Youtube for the best experience.

Do remember that uBlock Origins filters are updated after some period to block Anti-Adblock script ID, so make sure before that they are updated. Otherwise, the result will not be the expected one.

Brave Web Browser

Brave web browser comes in with a built-in ad blocker, which hinders any ads from appearing on Youtube videos by default. So all you just have to do is the following:

1) Download the app from Play Store or App Store.

2) Open Youtube on the browser for ads-free videos.

Moreover, it is also available for Windows or Macs.

Disable Ads on Your Videos

You can call it the ‘indirect way’ of blocking ads. You do not block any ads following this method: you just do not let them appear on your own videos. If you are the owner of a Youtube channel (AKA content creator), you can demonetize your own videos. Which means your subscribers will not be interrupted by any ads while watching your videos. But this takes away the whole idea of creating a Youtube channel.

Follow the guide to disable ads on your videos:

1) Go to your Youtube Studio by clicking on the profile icon at the top-right corner on your Youtube page and then clicking on Youtube Studio.

2) Select Content from the options at the left side of the page.

3) Then select the specific video you want to demonetize, and choose monetization by the video name. Then turn off monetization on this video by choosing off.

But again, remember that this is for the owners who are running a monetized channel, not just a channel. Learn more about how to remove ads from your created videos in this vlog:


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by Ehtasham Ahmad via Digital Information World

ChatGPT Earns $37M in September, Surpasses $300M in Total Revenue

ChatGPT is growing faster on Google Play Store and Apple App Store and has become one of the fastest-growing apps. September 2024 was one of the most important months for ChatGPT in terms of revenue, just like this whole quarter was. ChatGPT is quickly catching up after seeing some decline last year.

According to estimates by Appfigures Intelligence, ChatGPT earned $37 million in net revenue in September, which means it is the revenue that ChatGPT has earned after paying App Store and Play Store fees. This marks ChatGPT’s 19% month-over-month growth, which isn’t its highest but still good considering ChatGPT’s past numbers.

This growth of ChatGPT is mostly seen on the US App Store, where ChatGPT is currently the 27th top-grossing app. September was a big milestone for ChatGPT, as its total revenue has crossed $300 million since its release. ChatGPT generated $177 million in Q2 and $315 million in Q3, marking a 78% increase in revenue from Q2 to Q3.

A few days ago, OpenAI also revealed its Realtime API, which will help users build apps using OpenAI’s advanced voice mode. This could also help increase OpenAI’s revenue even though the Realtime API is very costly. However, this likely won’t stop some users from trying it out, and it seems like OpenAI is expecting positive results from this launch.

Read next: Frequent Screen Use Impacts Language Skills in Children, Study Reveals
by Arooj Ahmed via Digital Information World

Frequent Screen Use Impacts Language Skills in Children, Study Reveals

Scientists in Estonia conducted a study on 421 children to determine if screen usage impacts their language development. The study was published in Frontiers in Developmental Psychology, and it found that homes with a lot of screens, where children frequently use these screens, show signs of delayed speech. The lead author of the study, Dr. Tiia Tulviste of the University of Tartu, says that most children learn languages and everyday behaviors while interacting with adults. However, nowadays, many children are actively involved in watching screens, which affects how they develop language and speech.

For the study, the researchers gathered families of 421 children between the ages of 2 and 4 years. They asked the parents how much their children typically use screens and what types of screens are used on an average day. The parents were also asked how much they use screens as a family, such as for watching a movie. They were then handed a questionnaire that included questions about their child’s speaking abilities.

The researchers then divided the children and adults into three groups according to screen use—low, moderate, and high. They found that parents who used screens a lot also had children who used screens frequently. On the other hand, parents with low screen usage had children with similarly low screen usage. The children who were not using screens frequently had better grammar and vocabulary. However, regardless of how low or high the screen time was, it had some negative effects on a child's language skills.

If the parents or children were using screens for gaming, there were more negative effects on the child’s learning abilities. Games in foreign languages didn’t provide learning opportunities for children. The authors of the study stated that more research is needed to determine how family members' screen time impacts children's learning and language development.

Image: DIW-Aigen

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by Arooj Ahmed via Digital Information World

Google Tests Blue Tick Verification for Business Links in Search Results

Google is testing out a new feature in its search results which would make business links verified by showing a blue tick next to them. This feature will help people to stop clicking on links that are fraud and fake, and instead help them look for the genuine website. Molly Shaheen, Google’s public affairs spokesperson, told The Verge that Google is always trying out features that can help users the best. This verified feature will also help users in identifying the genuine links with blue ticks next to businesses like Google, Apple, Meta, etc.

Image: Google Search Screenshot showing verified Apple link. Credit TheVerge 

Some users have seen these blue checkmarks next to websites on Google search results but this feature hasn’t been widely rolled out. If you hover the cursor over the blue checkmark, you will be able to see a note from Google saying that this blue icon is being seen next to the business name because this website or business is real. However, Google cannot guarantee anything about its products and how reliable the business is.

Google hasn’t officially announced anything about these blue check marks and we don’t know for sure how long it will take to roll out completely. This feature seems like an extension to Google’s Brand Indicators for Message Identification (BIMI) feature, which is displaying blue check marks next to Gmail accounts who have verified themselves.

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• Gartner Predicts Software Engineers Must Upskill to Work With AI or Risk Job Loss

• More Than 50% of Smartphones Sold in Q2 2024 Feature 50MP Cameras, Reflecting Consumer Trends
by Arooj Ahmed via Digital Information World

More Than 50% of Smartphones Sold in Q2 2024 Feature 50MP Cameras, Reflecting Consumer Trends

CounterPoint Research reports that the camera resolution of smartphones had increased to 54M in Q2 of 2024. In Q2 of 2020, the average smartphone camera resolution was 27MP. The biggest reason why camera resolution of most smartphones keeps on increasing is customer requirement. Now consumers need better smartphones with the best camera resolution, leading to a significant increase in demand. According to the Consumer Lens Survey, a good camera resolution is one of the most important factors considered before buying a smartphone.

To meet customer requirements, many OEMs have been working to increase their camera resolution. More than 50% of the smartphones sold in Q2 of 2024 had a camera resolution of 50MP. The biggest growth in camera resolution smartphones can be seen among entry to mid price smartphones ($100 to $250) and premium smartphones (more than $600).

The biggest shift in the premium segment was seen when Apple switched from 12MP to 48MP in its iPhone 15 series. In the entry and mid segment, Chinese Android OEMs increased their smartphone camera resolution. The camera resolution in the mid-price sector has reached 100MP and 108 MP.

Rear cameras have also seen a shift with 32% of the shipments in Q2 2020 and now having a share of 45% in Q2 2024. This shift is because of OEMs using macro camera capabilities and increasing the sensor size to take in more light. Even though smartphones with lower camera resolution are also expected to see some increase, the higher-resolution cameras will stabilize themselves in the coming years. The incorporation of telephoto lens and GenAI features in newer smartphones will probably have more shipments.

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by Arooj Ahmed via Digital Information World

EU’s Top Court Rules Against Meta’s Data Retention For Ad Targeting

Meta’s Facebook can no longer retain user data for long periods. The news comes after a top court in the EU ruled against the company’s ad targeting practices.

The decision came on Friday when it was revealed that leading social networks including Facebook have been engaged in the activity for too long. This can have serious consequences for Meta and the way it targets users for ads in the region.

Restrictions on how long personal data will be stored were announced to ensure minimal data collection as per the GDPR. Similarly, any organization that chooses to breach the regime will now be penalized. Fines issued can go up to 4% of the company’s global yearly turnover.

When it comes down to Meta, the amount could mean billions are at stake in the form of penalties. As it is, the tech giant is already at the top of the scoreboard in terms of GDPR breaches.

The latest CJEU ruling arrives after an earlier case as published by the court in April. This highlighted the importance of limits on data stored for ad targeting purposes. When Meta was recently asked to comment on the matter, the company’s spokesperson said they are waiting for the complete judgment to come out.

Facebook’s parent company is waiting for the final court judgment in print, after which they plan to share their insights on the matter. 

The company highlighted how it takes its privacy so seriously. Over time, it has invested billions of Euros to make sure all products remain safe for users. Similarly, the company mentioned how users are always welcome to adjust privacy settings and how their data is used on Meta’s apps.

The reason why this issue is concerning for Meta is that the company makes big revenue through ad tech. Through tracking and profiling, they collect data all over the internet. This can be through cookies, plug-ins, and more. The goal is to enhance sales for small advertising services. Hence, any law that hinders this business will drastically impact Meta and similar tech giants making revenue in this way.

Image: DIW-Aigen

Read next: Is Cocomelon’s Content Causing Children to Show Signs of Less Attention Span and Delayed Speech?
by Dr. Hura Anwar via Digital Information World

Streamlining Customer Support with Zendesk Translation

In today's global marketplace, businesses are reaching audiences that speak a variety of languages. To effectively serve a diverse customer base, companies must communicate clearly and efficiently, regardless of language barriers. This is where zendesk translation comes into play, offering a powerful solution for enhancing customer support through seamless language integration.

Zendesk is a popular customer service platform that helps businesses manage and respond to customer inquiries efficiently. With the rise of international clientele, the demand for multilingual support has surged. Implementing automated translation for Zendesk can significantly enhance the user experience by providing instant translations for customer interactions, ensuring that language differences do not hinder communication.

The Importance of Multilingual Support

Image: DIW-Aigen

In a world where businesses are no longer limited by geographical boundaries, multilingual support has become essential. Here’s why:

1. Broader Reach: Offering support in multiple languages allows businesses to connect with a wider audience. This not only enhances customer satisfaction but also increases the potential for sales and brand loyalty.
2. Improved Customer Experience: Customers are more likely to engage with a brand that communicates in their preferred language. This personal touch can lead to improved customer retention and loyalty.
3. Competitive Advantage: Providing multilingual support can set a business apart from competitors. Companies that invest in language solutions demonstrate a commitment to meeting the needs of their diverse clientele.
4. Effective Problem Resolution: Language barriers can lead to misunderstandings and frustration. Automated translation for Zendesk ensures that customers receive accurate information, leading to quicker issue resolution and enhanced satisfaction.

Benefits of Zendesk Integration

Integrating translation capabilities into Zendesk can transform the way businesses interact with their customers. Here are some key benefits:

1. Real-Time Translation: With Zendesk translation, customer queries can be translated instantly. This allows support agents to respond quickly and accurately, reducing wait times and improving overall service quality.
2. Consistency Across Channels: Automated translation ensures that customers receive consistent information regardless of the communication channel. Whether customers reach out via email, chat, or social media, they can expect the same level of support.
3. Scalability: As businesses grow and expand into new markets, their support needs can change. A Zendesk integration with translation capabilities can easily scale to accommodate increasing demand, ensuring that language is never a barrier to customer service.
4. Cost-Effective Solution: Traditional translation methods can be costly and time-consuming. Automating the translation process through Zendesk integration reduces overhead costs and streamlines workflows.

How Automated Translation for Zendesk Works

The process of implementing automated translation for Zendesk is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step overview:

1. Integration Setup: Businesses can easily integrate translation services into their Zendesk platform. This typically involves connecting the translation API to the Zendesk environment.
2. Language Selection: Once the integration is complete, businesses can select the languages they wish to support. This allows them to tailor their translation capabilities to their specific customer base.
3. Real-Time Translation: As customer inquiries are received, the automated translation service translates messages in real-time. Support agents can view the original message alongside the translated version, enabling them to respond accurately.
4. Feedback Loop: To continuously improve the quality of translations, businesses can implement a feedback loop. Customers can rate the effectiveness of the translations, providing valuable insights for further enhancements.

Choosing the Right Translation Solution

When considering a translation solution for Zendesk, it’s important to evaluate several factors:

1. Accuracy: Look for a translation service that offers high accuracy in translations. Machine learning and AI-driven translation technologies can significantly enhance the quality of translations over time.
2. Customization Options: Some translation services allow for customization, enabling businesses to adapt translations to their industry-specific terminology and tone.
3. User-Friendly Interface: The integration should be easy to use, allowing support agents to focus on providing excellent customer service without being hindered by complicated tools.
4. Technical Support: Ensure that the translation service provides robust technical support. In case of any issues, having reliable support can save time and resources.

Conclusion

Investing in Zendesk translation is a strategic move for businesses looking to enhance their customer support experience. By integrating automated translation into the Zendesk platform, companies can break down language barriers, streamline communication, and ultimately improve customer satisfaction. The benefits of real-time translations, consistency across channels, scalability, and cost-effectiveness make this solution a must-have for any business aiming to thrive in a multilingual world.

As companies continue to expand their reach globally, the need for effective communication in multiple languages will only grow. Embracing automated translation for Zendesk is not just a smart business decision; it’s a step toward a more inclusive and responsive customer service experience.

For more information about integrating translation solutions into your customer support strategy, visit Translate.com. Embrace the future of customer service and make language barriers a thing of the past!

by Web Desk via Digital Information World