YouTube Overtakes Apple TV Screen Savers with Unwanted Slideshows
YouTube has recently sparked frustration among Apple TV users by introducing a change to its app that overrides the default Aerial screen savers. Instead of the stunning videos showcasing nature and travel, users are now presented with slideshows of low-quality images and video thumbnails.
The YouTube ‘Screen Stealer’
As detailed by technology expert Joe Rosensteel, the YouTube app’s new behavior differs depending on the user’s activity. If a video is paused, the screen saver displays a slideshow of generic still images extracted from the video. Alternatively, if a video is actively playing and paused for an extended period, the screen saver becomes an endless loop of zooming YouTube art that fades to black and restarts.
Workaround to Restore Aerial Screen Savers
Fortunately, there is a simple workaround that allows users to regain control of their screen savers. By manually pausing the YouTube app before the 4-5 minute mark, users can prevent the app from activating its slideshow screen saver. This ensures that the default Apple TV screen savers will continue to play uninterrupted, at least for the time being.
Concerns over Future Advertisements
While YouTube currently refrains from displaying ads or promotional content on its screen savers, many experts speculate that this may change in the near future. Such a move would introduce an unwelcome layer of advertising into the Apple TV experience and potentially diminish the value of the platform for users.