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🚨California Bans Louder Streaming Ads Starting July 1

Streaming ads can't outshout your shows in California now

TL;DR

Starting July 1, streaming services in CA must ensure ads aren't louder than the content. Similar laws may follow in other states and countries.

Effective July 1, California has banned streaming services from playing ads at a higher volume than accompanying video content. This law aims to prevent disruptive ad noise that can disturb viewers, especially parents trying to soothe their children. The legislation applies only to California for now but could set a precedent for broader adoption. Industry groups like the Motion Picture Association of America opposed the bill, arguing that streamers were already addressing this issue internally.

California Bans Louder Streaming Ads Starting July 1 — TechCrunch

Key Points

1

Starting July 1, CA bans louder ads on streaming services compared to content volume

2

Similar restrictions already exist for broadcast and cable TV commercials in CA

3

A similar bill is set to take effect in Illinois next year

4

Industry groups opposed the bill, citing internal efforts to address ad volume issues

5

The law's sponsor cited exhausted parents as inspiration for the legislation

Why It Matters

If you're a parent or anyone disturbed by loud streaming ads, this is good news. The law targets specific output devices like TVs and tablets, ensuring consistent volume levels across platforms. However, streamers must now navigate compliance challenges on diverse hardware.

streaming servicesad regulationsconsumer protection

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does this matter?

If you're a parent or anyone disturbed by loud streaming ads, this is good news. The law targets specific output devices like TVs and tablets, ensuring consistent volume levels across platforms. However, streamers must now navigate compliance challenges on diverse hardware.

What happened?

Starting July 1, streaming services in CA must ensure ads aren't louder than the content. Similar laws may follow in other states and countries.

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