YouTube Users in Cuba Encounter Disruptions: What's Behind the Glitches?

In Cuba, many YouTube users are experiencing disruptions while using the platform. Reports from the state-run media outlet Cubadebate highlight that videos on YouTube are stopping at the 59-second mark, regardless of the content or the browser being used.

With no clear official explanation, numerous users have turned to VPN services to continue accessing YouTube without interruptions, albeit with the unexpected return of advertisements. This information comes from Cubadebate, which has been tracking the issue closely.

YouTube provided a standard response to inquiries from Canal USB, a platform affiliated with Cubadebate. The tech giant suggested users restart their devices, check their internet connections, or log out and then back into their accounts.

These types of issues cause concern among internet users in Cuba, who rely heavily on digital platforms for information in a country where internet access is restricted. Discussions in the Telegram channel of the Cuban state media have sparked several theories, including restrictive YouTube policies and ad blockers as potential causes of the disruptions.

One affected user shared, "At 58 seconds, an API responsible for displaying ads is launched. The error happens because, without ads, videos halt. I inspected this in the Network tab and reported it to YouTube support, but they always send automated responses."

Additionally, the user known as @trickster_v_ on X attempted to follow the steps suggested by the YouTube bot. Even after consulting the community help center, the problem persisted.