If you’ve ever been jolted awake by a loud streaming ad while binge-watching your favorite show, then hold on to your popcorn, because California is here to save the day! Starting July 1, 2023, a new law is taking effect that aims to put an end to those obnoxiously loud ads that often feel like they’re trying to compete with a rock concert.
California's new streaming ad volume law takes effect this Wednesday, July 1, barring platforms from running commercials louder than the shows they interrupt.
Let’s face it, we’ve all been there. You’re cozied up on your couch, enjoying a dramatic moment in your series when suddenly, BOOM! A voice that sounds like it’s been cranked up to eleven breaks the illusion, trying to sell you a new car or the latest kitchen gadget. It’s as if the ad itself is saying, “Hey, you might be emotionally invested in this character’s journey, but have you considered upgrading your blender?” Talk about a mood killer!
So, what’s this new law all about? Well, California’s legislators have decided that enough is enough. The law requires streaming platforms to ensure that their ads don’t exceed the volume of the programs they are interrupting. It’s like a decibel-level referee stepping into the ring to keep things fair and square.
Now, I know what you might be thinking: “Isn’t this common sense?” You’d think so, right? But apparently, common sense took a vacation in the world of advertising. The law is a response to a long-standing complaint from viewers who have had it up to here with the jarring volume differences.
Just imagine a world where you can watch your favorite shows without being startled by an ad that could wake the neighbors. It’s almost like a dream! Well, maybe not a dream, but definitely a better reality.
Of course, there are some who might argue that this law is a slippery slope. What’s next? Regulating the color of ads? (I can hear the screams of graphic designers everywhere.) But let’s be real, if the most controversial thing we’re doing is making sure our ears aren’t assaulted during a cozy night in, I’d say we’re doing pretty okay as a society.
The law applies to all streaming services operating in California, which means the likes of Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video are all in the same boat. They’ll need to keep their ad volumes in check if they want to keep their California subscribers happy. And trust me, nobody wants to mess with California subscribers. They’re a passionate bunch!
So, as we approach July 1, let’s all raise a toast (or maybe just a cup of coffee) to this new law. It’s a small victory for viewers everywhere, giving us a fighting chance against the loud ad onslaught. Here’s hoping that soon, we can stream in peace, without our eardrums being treated like a punching bag.
In conclusion, while we might not have solved all of life’s problems, at least we can look forward to a slightly more pleasant streaming experience. Because if we can’t enjoy our shows without blasted ads, what’s the point? Cheers to quieter viewing, California!
Inspired by: “California law targeting loud streaming ads takes effect on July 1” (r/technology)