Now, YouTube is testing a new ad format for live streams on the platform. The company is testing picture-in-picture mid-roll ads on live streams.
The company says that these ads will start showing on eligible broadcasts now. They’ve been experimenting on this for quite a while now. It is the first time they’ve tested this with actual live streams.
Here is what YouTube said.
“YouTube is experimenting with Picture in Picture for live mid-rolls. Some viewers on select devices will begin to see the new ad format in the coming months, allowing creators to run ads without disrupting the live stream!”
From now on, the streamers will be able to generate revenue from smaller screen ads that are displayed on top of the in-progress presentation. The ads will not cut into your stream and disrupt the flow.
This could be the best way to incorporate promotions into streams as there are no better ways. YouTube has been fenagling with the mid-roll ads for live streams from last September. Those ads included a timer as well to prepare the users and streamers for the upcoming ads. There was also a delay option as well for the creator to stop the ad from showing at inappropriate times.
Mid-roll ads have proven to be a valuable feature for creators. According to YouTube, creators who opt for mid-roll ads see a more than 20% increase in revenue.
Now, picture-in-picture ads could also become one of the key sources of revenue for streamers as they will be less intrusive. It is an interesting experiment by YouTube as they are also looking for ways to bring more revenue.
