Automatic Playback and Audio Issues in Video Ads on X (Former Twitter): Addressing the Problems

Since May 29, 2024, users have reported that some video ads on X (formerly Twitter) are auto-playing, even with the auto-play feature disabled. The issue appears to be related to ads from Google, a partner of X. In this article, we will explore the details of this problem and discuss potential solutions users can consider until X addresses the issue.

Understanding the X (formerly Twitter) Video Advertisements Auto-Play and Sound Issue

The Reported Problem: Unwanted Auto-Play and Sound from Video Ads

Since around May 29, 2024, users have reported an issue with X (the former Twitter) where video advertisements are auto-playing and producing sound, even for those who have disabled auto-play in their settings. Users have been voicing their frustration about this problem on the platform.

The Characteristics of the Problematic Video Ads

The video ads that are auto-playing and producing sound on X do not have the user’s account name displayed, and have playback, pause, and mute buttons shown in the bottom left of the video.

The Ads are Served by X’s Advertising Partners

According to user reports, the video ads that are auto-playing and producing sound are being served by X’s advertising partners, including Google. Users have shared screenshots showing the ad disclosure stating “You have been served this ad by one of our ad partners, Google.”

These partners may target the ads they serve you on X based on interests they have inferred about you, including based on your web browsing history or mobile application usage.

You can control whether you receive interest-based ads on X by using the “Personalize ads” setting.

Waiting for X to Address the Issue

Since the auto-play issue is related to X’s advertising partners, users cannot currently address it through the X app’s settings. The best solution is to wait for X to resolve the problem and ensure that the “auto-play” setting also applies to ads served by their partners.

In the meantime, users can try to ignore the problematic ads by tapping the menu button (three dots) at the top right of the ad and selecting “I’m not interested.” However, this currently only leads to a prompt to upgrade to a premium subscription, without the ability to permanently block or mute the ads.

Inability to Block or Mute Ads Directly from the Ad Post

In the latest version of the X app (10.43), the options to “Mute @username” and “Block @username” have been removed from the menu on ad posts. Users now need to navigate to the advertiser’s profile page to block or mute them.

Conclusion

The issue of auto-playing video ads with sound on X is caused by the platform’s advertising partners, such as Google. While users can try to ignore the ads, they are currently unable to block or mute them directly from the ad post. X will need to address this problem to ensure their users have control over the ads they see and hear on the platform.

Q&A: “Issue of Auto-playing Video Ads with Sound on X (Former Twitter)”

Here are the Q&A responses based on the provided news:

Q: What is the issue with video ads on X (former Twitter)?

Starting around May 29, 2024, there have been reports of video ads auto-playing on X (former Twitter) even for users who have video auto-play disabled in their settings. This has resulted in users encountering unwanted audio from the ads playing.

What are the characteristics of the auto-playing video ads on X?

The auto-playing video ads on X are delivered by ad partners, not X’s own ad platform. These ads do not display the user’s account name and have playback, pause, and mute buttons shown in the bottom left of the video.

Who is delivering the auto-playing video ads on X?

Based on user reports, some of the auto-playing video ads on X are being delivered by Google, one of X’s ad partners. Users have been able to confirm this through the ad menu on X.

How can users address the auto-playing video ad issue on X?

Since there is currently no way to fully address the auto-playing video ad issue within the X app, users will need to wait for the data usage settings (auto-play setting) to be applied to ads from partners as well. In the meantime, users can tap the menu button (…) on the video ads and select “I’m not interested” to try to minimize them, though this may lead to prompts to upgrade to a premium subscription.

Can users block or mute advertisers on X?

In the latest version of the X app (v10.43), the ability to block or mute advertisers directly from the ad posts has been removed. Users will need to navigate to the advertiser’s profile page to perform these actions.

Public Opinion: “Issue of Auto-playing Video Ads with Sound on X (Former Twitter)” Frustrating Auto-Play Ads Ruin the X Experience

X is supposed to be a place for users to connect, not a constant barrage of intrusive ads. This auto-play video ad issue is infuriating and really takes away from the platform. I shouldn’t have to pay extra just to stop ads from blasting audio without my consent. X needs to get this under control.

Greedy X Prioritizes Profits Over User Experience

We all know X needs to generate revenue, but this is ridiculous. Forcing users to upgrade to a premium tier just to stop unwanted audio ads is a blatant money grab. X should be focused on improving the core user experience, not finding new ways to nickel and dime its audience.

Irresponsible Ad Partners Ruin the X Platform

It’s unacceptable that X is allowing shady ad partners like Google to serve disruptive auto-play video ads without user consent. This damages trust in the platform and shows X is more concerned with short-term profits than protecting its users. X needs to take responsibility and reign in these predatory ad practices.

X’s Declining Quality Pushes Users Toward Alternatives

Issues like this auto-play ad problem are just the latest examples of X’s steady decline in quality and user-friendliness. Constant changes that prioritize monetization over the needs of the community are driving users to seek out other social media platforms that provide a better overall experience. X needs to refocus on its core purpose before it loses even more ground to the competition.

Disabling Auto-Play Ads Should be a Basic Function, Not a Premium Perk

The fact that X is pushing users to pay for a premium tier just to stop disruptive auto-play ads is insulting. Giving users control over their feed and media experience should be a standard feature, not locked behind a paywall. X is nickel and diming its userbase and needs to rethink its priorities before it loses even more goodwill.

Ads Erode Trust and Damage the X Community

Intrusive, auto-playing ads that circumvent user settings are a massive breach of trust. X is supposed to be a platform for open communication and connection, not a never-ending stream of monetization tactics. This kind of behavior from X and its ad partners is corrosive to the community and will only push more users away in the long run.

X’s Mishandling of Ads Betrays its Core Purpose

At its heart, X is supposed to be a place for people to freely share information and engage in discourse. But the platform’s increasingly heavy-handed approach to ads and monetization is completely at odds with that purpose. X needs to refocus on serving its users, not exploiting them for profit.

Blocked and Muted Accounts Should Stay Blocked on X

The decision to remove the ability to block or mute accounts directly from ad posts is a huge step backwards for X. Users should have full control over their feed and who they engage with, not be forced to jump through hoops just to maintain their preferences. This change only benefits X’s bottom line, not its community.

X’s Broken Promises on User Control Erode Goodwill

X has long touted its commitment to user empowerment and customization, but moves like disabling block/mute functions and pushing unwanted auto-play ads completely undermine those claims. This kind of blatant disregard for user experience in the name of profits will only breed more resentment toward the platform. X needs to start practicing what it preaches.

X’s Descent Into Commercialism Alienates Its Core Users

The X platform was once celebrated for its grassroots, community-driven spirit. But the relentless shift toward aggressive monetization and disruptive advertising is steadily stripping away that identity. Long-time users who helped build X into what it is are being pushed aside in favor of short-term profits. This is a dangerous path that will only hasten X’s decline.