How to Get Ad-Free YouTube on Android TV & Google TV
Since 2020, the use of ad-blocking software has seen significant growth, especially in the wake of the pandemic. Many users prefer these tools to avoid disruptive advertisements before and during video content. While effective browser add-ons and standalone apps are available for computers and mobile devices, options remain limited for smart TVs such as Google/Android TV. This comprehensive article highlights the best ad-free YouTube apps for Android TV and explores additional methods to enjoy ad-free YouTube on your smart TV.
Why Does YouTube Have So Many Ads?
YouTube, one of the world’s largest video-sharing platforms and owned by Google, operates on a vast infrastructure that requires substantial funding. To maintain this free service, YouTube depends heavily on advertisements as its primary source of revenue. These ads not only support the platform financially, but also allow YouTube to provide free access to millions of users globally.
However, the growing number of ads can become a major inconvenience for viewers. As a result, many users have turned to ad-free YouTube apps, such as YouTube Vanced. Unfortunately, some of these solutions, including YouTube Vanced, have been discontinued by Google for violating YouTube’s terms of service. Most of these apps are now only accessible by downloading their APK files.
For detailed instructions, refer to our guide on how to download and install APKs on Google/Android TV. If you’re already familiar with the process, continue reading for the best ad-free solutions!
List of Ad-Free YouTube Apps for Android TV
Ad-free YouTube apps for Android TV provide an excellent alternative to the official YouTube app if you wish to enjoy videos without commercial interruptions. These apps block advertisements by default, enabling a smoother and more enjoyable viewing experience regardless of the content you watch.
1. YouTube Vanced
YouTube Vanced also includes a dark mode, ideal for low-light conditions. Please note that YouTube Vanced is no longer available on the Google Play Store, but you can still download the APK file from reputable sources. Always use trusted sites to avoid security risks.
2. AdGuard
AdGuard is a versatile ad-blocker designed to work seamlessly on YouTube as well as other platforms. In addition to removing ads for an uninterrupted viewing experience, AdGuard offers privacy protection and robust parental controls. By using AdGuard, you can watch your favorite YouTube videos without interruptions, resulting in a calmer and more enjoyable atmosphere on your Android TV.
3. NewPipe
NewPipe is a popular open-source app that delivers a completely ad-free YouTube experience on Android TV. Its high degree of customization allows users to personalize their viewing settings. NewPipe also supports background playback and enables users to download videos for offline access—an ideal feature if you prefer to watch content on the go or in locations with limited connectivity.
4. TubeMate
TubeMate is a feature-rich YouTube downloader that also enables an ad-free viewing experience. With TubeMate, you can download your favorite videos and watch them directly from the app—perfect for those who like to save content for offline viewing when traveling or during commutes.
TubeMate also features a built-in video player and supports background playback. This makes it a highly convenient choice for users who wish to continue enjoying content while multitasking or using other applications on their devices.
5. OGYouTube
OGYouTube is a modified version of the official YouTube app designed for an ad-free experience. OGYouTube offers advanced features such as background playback, offline video downloads, and a dark theme. It is a strong choice for users who value customization and uninterrupted viewing.
Other Ways to Watch Ad-Free YouTube on Android TV
In addition to dedicated ad-free YouTube apps, there are several alternative methods to minimize or block ads when watching YouTube on Android TV.
Using a VPN
A virtual private network (VPN) helps you browse the internet anonymously and may sometimes allow access to ad-free versions of services. Some VPNs can block ads by routing your traffic through servers with built-in ad-blocking capabilities. To try this approach, connect your Android TV to a secure VPN server, open the YouTube app, and check if ads are reduced or blocked during playback.
Ad-Blocking Browsers
Another effective method for blocking YouTube ads on Android TV is to use a web browser with integrated ad-blocking. Browsers with built-in ad-blockers can automatically filter out most ads, including those on YouTube. Simply install an ad-blocking browser on your Android TV, visit the official YouTube website, and enjoy your favorite videos with minimal interruptions.
Ad-Free YouTube on the Web
You can also achieve an ad-free YouTube experience by opening YouTube through a browser that supports ad-blocker extensions, such as Google Chrome. Install a reliable ad-blocker extension, then launch YouTube in the browser for uninterrupted playback. This solution offers a flexible way to bypass ads directly on your Android TV device.
While these methods may not eliminate every ad, they significantly reduce interruptions and offer a smoother YouTube experience on your device. Some techniques may affect video quality or compatibility, so choose the solution that best balances ad-blocking and performance for your setup.
Keep in mind that while ad-blockers and alternative apps provide a more enjoyable experience, some methods can disrupt YouTube features or quality. These approaches offer a helpful starting point if you’re looking to minimize ads on Android TV.
