When fixing problem lines on your Vizio TV, remember this is often a hardware issue. Start by updating the firmware and power cycling your TV, as these can fix software-related glitches causing lines. If the issue persists, consider hardware issues like faulty drivers or T-Con boards. Here are some common causes and how to fix them.

Cause 1. Malfunctioning Row and Column Drivers

Row and column drivers are essential for a clear display. They activate the individual pixels and adjust factors like brightness and color. Row drivers handle rows of pixels, while column drivers handle columns.

When a driver malfunctions, pixels can’t display properly, leading to lines. A bad row driver usually causes horizontal lines, while a bad column driver results in vertical lines. Issues can arise due to overheating, power surges, liquid exposure, or simply age.

If you see multiple vertical lines, it likely points to a deeper issue, as several column drivers would need to fail simultaneously.

Cause 2. Issues With Your T-Con Board

A T-Con board (Timing Control Board) manages the timing and coordination of signals controlling the display. It sends signals to row and column drivers, allowing pixel activation, brightness adjustments, and more. Without it, drivers wouldn’t know when to activate pixels.

Signs of a faulty T-Con board include:

• Horizontal and vertical lines
• Display flickering, or no display at all.

If you see only vertical lines, it’s likely a T-Con board issue rather than column drivers. However, intermittent or flickering lines can also be indicative of T-Con board problems.

Cause 3. Resolution Mismatches and Line Artifacts

Line artifacts are visual distortions that can appear as lines on your TV’s display. They result from mismatches between your TV’s native resolution and the content’s resolution.

If your TV’s native resolution is 1080p and you try to play a 4K video, the TV has to scale the image to fit the screen. Improper scaling may cause temporary artifacts, often manifesting as blockiness or blurriness rather than distinct horizontal or vertical lines. Persistent lines are more likely related to underlying hardware issues.

Start by resetting your TV to its default resolution and aspect ratio settings.

If the problem persists, try different settings. If adjusting these settings changes the location or appearance of the artifacts, it suggests a resolution or scaling issue.

However, if continuous lines remain unchanged, it’s more indicative of a hardware problem that may involve malfunctioning row or column drivers, or a faulty T-Con board.

Cause 4. Loose or Damaged HDMI Cables

If you have an HDMI cable running from your TV to the main source device, ensure it is firmly connected and shows no signs of wear or damage. A loose or damaged HDMI cable can cause various display issues, such as flickering, screen blackouts, or pixelation.

• Check both ends of the HDMI cable to ensure they are securely connected to both the TV and the source device (e.g., cable box, gaming console, or Blu-ray player).
• Inspect the cable for visible signs of wear, such as cuts, or fraying. Replace the cable if any damage is found.
• Try using a different HDMI cable to see if the issue persists.
• Switch to another HDMI port on the TV to rule out a faulty port.
• Ensure that the HDMI input source is correctly selected on your TV.

While these steps can help resolve many HDMI-related display issues, it’s important to note that persistent colored lines, particularly those that do not disappear after addressing the HDMI connection, usually indicate deeper hardware failures such as a faulty T-Con board or malfunctioning row/column drivers.

Cause 5. Damaged Screen

If your TV has a damaged screen from an impact, pressing too hard, or exposure to external elements, it will likely cause problem lines. Symptoms of a damaged screen can include visible cracks, patches of dead pixels, or persistent lines that are unaffected by settings adjustments.

In such cases, the screen itself needs replacing, often requiring a complete LCD replacement, which can be prohibitively expensive. Depending on the model and age of your TV, replacing the LCD might cost more than purchasing a new unit.

Before deciding on a replacement, it’s advisable to get a professional diagnosis to confirm that the screen is irreparably damaged and not another issue that could be less costly to fix.

Remember to check your TV’s warranty and contact Vizio support to see if repairs or replacements are covered, which could potentially save you money.

The post Why Is My Vizio TV Displaying Lines? Causes and Fixes Explained appeared first on Appuals.

At any rate, if you’re thinking of introducing your kids to anime, you’ll be looking for some parental controls on Crunchyroll. Most anime are quite mature and unsuitable for kids, and if you’ve watched your fair sure of them, you know very well what we’re talking about. Therefore, let’s get down to it.

What are Parental Controls?

Parental controls are a configuration, available on most streaming service sites, that restrict potentially mature content. Usually, this means content containing sexual content, extremely violent acts, gore, etc. Most of us watch shows via streaming services, due to their diverse content library and watching on demand ability.

And naturally, that means that most of the cartoons and other shows targeted towards children are also available on these streaming services. But these are mixed in with the mature content, and there is a need for a suitable filter that will restrict the mature content. That’s where parental controls come in, and with this option, you can rest assured that your child won’t be able to access any content not meant for them.

READ MORE: How to Set up Google Home Parental Controls? ➜

Does Crunchyroll Have Parental Controls?

As you’d expect from any major streaming service, Crunchyroll does have parental controls. This is a huge relief, since we all know know that most anime are more mature than they let on and usually include some content that is unsuitable for children.

How To Enable Parental Controls on Crunchyroll

To enable parental controls on Crunchyroll, follow the steps outlined below:

1. First off, open up Crunchyroll on your desktop’s browser.
   

   

2. Next, click on the blank profile picture in the top-right corner. Select Log In from the drop-down that appears.
   

   

3. Now, enter your account credentials and click on Log In.
   

   

4. Once you’ve logged into you account successfully, click on your profile picture on the top-right corner again.
   

   

5. Once again, a drop-down menu will appear. Choose Settings from the list of available options.
   

   

6.  In Settings, open up the Preferences section. You’ll see a switch for toggling Mature Video Content. If it is switched on, as shown below, click on it. If it is switched off, parental controls are active for your Crunchyroll account.
   

   

7. If you clicked on the switch, a pop-up will appear before you for confirmation of this action. It will ask you to enter your Crunchyroll account’s password. Enter it and click on Confirm.
   

   

8. After a few seconds, the Settings page will become accessible once again, and you’ll see that the Mature Video Content switch has been switched off.
   

   

READ MORE: FIXED: 8 Solutions for Crunchyroll Subtitles Not Working ➜

Parental Controls on Crunchyroll Competitors

Crunchyroll has the biggest library of anime out of every streaming service. However, that doesn’t mean that it has all of them. You can most probably find an anime Crunchyroll is missing on Hulu, Netflix, Max or HIDIVE.

HIDIVE is another anime streaming service, but it doesn’t have much in the way of exclusives. Still, it also has parental controls available, but you might find that even more titles are restricted when using an iOS device, due to Apple‘s mature content policy.

Netflix, Max and Hulu are generally known for their TV shows that have highly mature content, they have the option to set up exclusive Kids profiles, that filter out the mature content and allow children to accessible to suitable shows and movies.

READ MORE: 10 Underrated Anime that Deserve More Hype Than Your Ex! ➜

Conclusion

Anime tends to have slightly mature content, no matter what kind of filter you use. Honestly speaking, you would have to restrict around 90% of anime to find the ones that were completely kid-friendly. But that’s part of growing up. If you’re confident that your kids are mature enough to get past the mature content, you can introduce them to some wonderful fiction. After all, which one of us didn’t watch movies too violent for our age growing up?

The post Crunchyroll Parental Controls: Everything You Should Know appeared first on Appuals.

What is Sub4Sub?

Sub4sub, which is short for “Subscriber for Subscriber”, is a trending tactic through which YouTubers gain subscribers. For this to work, a creator subscribes to someone’s channel and in exchange the other person subscribes to their channel. There are even several websites for the sole purpose of connecting YouTubers that promote the sub4sub practice.

Many YouTubers in 2024, especially those beginning with their channels, look for ways to expand their reach. However before opting for methods such as sub4sub, it’s important to weigh their impact. Is it really your best option to boost visibility?

READ MORE: YouTube Demonetized 2024 – What Went Wrong and How to Fix It? ➜

Is Sub4Sub Worth It in 2024?

It can be said with certainty that sub4sub does raise your number of subscribers. Moreover, it gives YouTubers a chance to connect with other content creators, which might be beneficial in the long term. Having a greater number of subscribers technically means increased views, and the possibility of earning money.

But, let’s slow down here a bit and look into the details of this tactic. While sub4sub may seem like an effective method to increase your potential subscribers, let’s not forget the aspect of actual engagement. Usually, people who choose to obtain subscribers this way have no intention of actually interacting with the subscribed channel or their content. That kind of derails your plan, no?

No interaction means no engagement with your content, hence your number of views is less than your actual subscribers. Not only is this off-putting for any individual who comes across your channel but YouTube also senses something is off. You have subscribers but no views, likes, comments, or shares because your so called “subscribers” have no interest in expanding your reach.

Another disadvantage is that YouTube no longer promotes your content seeing as your own subscribers do not enjoy this type of content, leaving no chance for random people to be entertained by it. This slowly kills your channel. So what started off as a way to enhance engagement results in the death of your channel. That’s some irony, innit?

READ MORE: How to See Your Subscribers on YouTube – Desktop & Mobile ➜

Better Alternatives to Sub4Sub

Now you might be wondering, if sub4sub is not really worth it in 2024, what can you do to increase your subscribers instead? You can gain genuine engagement and subscribers on YouTube by considering these alternatives:

• Have Patience: Successful channels are not built overnight, they require effort, patience, and persistence. Simply focus on creating high-quality content consistently and watch your channel grow organically over time with a bit of patience.
• Use Creative Ways to Market Yourself: Short-form content is a great way to increase your visibility and reach the targeted audience. Also, make content on trending topics and hashtags to naturally attract and retain subscribers.

• Pick an Unsaturated Niche: Instead of trying to compete in a crowded niche, do your research and identify niches with less saturation but a dedicated audience. This will give you a competitive edge and allow you to gain loyal subscribers.
• Collaborate with Other Creators: Partnering with other creators, either from your niche or a different one, to create content is also an authentic way to attract a more engaged subscriber base.
• Promote Your Channel: Take advantage of other social media platforms, like Instagram and TikTok, to promote your content. Online communities, such as Reddit and other forums are also places to share your videos and drive organic traffic towards your channel.

READ MORE: When Was YouTube Created & Why: Past, Present & Future ➜

Conclusion

So, if you’re truly looking to enhance your channel’s visibility in 2024, where competition gets you far, the right way to do it is also the ethical way. Remember, numbers are not everything, a loyal audience is.

The post Is Sub4Sub Worth It in 2024? Best Alternatives for Growth appeared first on Appuals.

Additionally, problems with the application, such as cached data or corrupted song files, can be a cause. Power-saving mode on mobile devices can also be the cause of this problem.

In this article, we will solve this problem using different solutions.

1. Check Network Connection

An internet connection is essential to use the autoplay feature on Spotify, especially if you have not downloaded the songs, which is a premium feature in Spotify.

If your internet is disconnected or slow, it can cause issues while autoplaying songs. You can check internet speed at Speedtest or Fast.

2. Check Autoplay Setting

If your autoplay settings are off, it will stop the autoplay feature from working. Checking the settings will verify if the feature is on or not, ensuring it is not causing the problem. 

1. Open Spotify and click on the profile icon on top.
   
2. Click on Settings.
   
3. Turn on Autoplay if it’s not.
   

3. Update Spotify

An outdated version of Spotify can cause disruption in the proper working of the application. Updating the app to the latest version will ensure there is no issue with the application, as there are many changes in the newer versions.

1. Open Playstore and search Spotify.
2. Hit the Update button.
   

4. Turn Off Power Saving Mode

If the power-saving mode is enabled, it can stop the application from working properly as power-saving mode limits background applications’ usage. Turning off the power-saving mode will allow Spotify to run in the background, which can help in solving this problem.

1. Open Settings and search for Power Saving.
   
2. Toggle it OFF if it is on.
   

5. Clear Cache and Data

Temporary cache in the Spotify app can cause issues. Clearing App Data and Cache removes all the temporary or previous data and cache, resolving temporary bugs, and allowing the autoplay feature to work properly.

Note: This will remove your account data, so you need to remember your account credentials for this.

1. Hold the Spotify icon and click on the info icon.
   
2. Go to Storage.
   
3. Click on Clear Data and Clear Cache.
   

6. Reinstall Spotify

If none of the solutions work, consider reinstalling the app. Reinstalling will remove all the previous files and install a fresh version of the application, which will likely help in solving this problem.

The post Is your Autoplay Feature Not Working on Spotify? Try this Fix! appeared first on Appuals.

There are two common ways to disable YouTube Shorts and recommendations: you can either disable the watch history or use an extension to hide YouTube Shorts and recommendations altogether. Disabling the watch history will prevent YouTube from suggesting content based on your previous viewing habits. Meanwhile, using the extension will simply stop YouTube from showing Shorts and recommendations.

1. Turn Off Watch History

Android/iOS

1. Open the YouTube App and tap on the profile icon from the bottom right.
2. Then, tap on Settings from the top right.
   
3. In the settings, tap Manage all history.
4. Then, tap on Controls, and then tap Turn Off.
   
5. YouTube will ask for confirmation; simply tap Pause to proceed.

Windows PC

1. Open your preferred browser.
2. Click on your profile icon from the top-right and select Manage Your Google Account.
   
3. Select Data & Privacy from the left and scroll down to the History Settings.
   
4. Select YouTube History from the listed options.
5. Click Turn Off, and then click Pause to confirm the action.
   

2. Use an Extension

If you spend more time on your PC than on mobile, this might be the best way to disable Shorts and recommendations. With an extension, you have the option to disable features individually. If you find yourself distracted by the Shorts feature, you can disable it. Similarly, if the YouTube recommendations feature distracts you, you can disable it as well.

Extensions modify the HTML of the webpage, giving you the freedom to hide anything on YouTube. To do so, follow these steps:

1. Download the Unhook Extension from the link in your browser.
   
2. Once it is downloaded, visit YouTube.com, and you should not see the recommendations and Shorts.
3. If you only want to hide Shorts, you can simply click on the Unhook extension from the top and turn off all the features except Shorts.
   
4. Once done, reload the page, and you should be good to go.

That’s all. By using the methods above, you will be able to turn off YouTube Shorts and recommendations.

The post How to Turn Off Shorts & Recommendations on YouTube? appeared first on Appuals.

In this post, we will go over the main causes of the Access 22 issue and step-by-step solutions to each one of these problems. So, if you stay with us till the end you’ll have your Spotify up and running in no time.

What is the Spotify Access 22 Error Code?

The Access 22 error code is an issue exclusive to PC and Mac versions of the Spotify app.  It pops up every time the user tries signing in to their Spotify account, indicating that the user can only access the app if they have the premium version of Spotify.

However, users with premium subscriptions have also faced this error which makes one thing clear: it has nothing to do with having a premium subscription.

What Causes the Spotify Access 22 Error?

One of the main causes of the Access 22 error is using an outdated version of the Spotify app on your computer system. Although the exact cause isn’t identified yet, a Spotify moderator suggested that the issue is sometimes linked to using a version of the Mac or Windows app released before April 2021. Apart from that a few other causes can be:

• Connectivity problems can also be a major cause of the error. Unstable internet connections can disrupt your connectivity to the Spotify servers leading to such errors. Network congestion and weak internet connections are also some other factors to consider.
• Using a VPN can also cause the Access 22 error as when you are using a VPN, security measures within the Spotify app may get triggered and block access to the app. If you are connected to a region where Spotify is unavailable you won’t be able to access it on your system either.
• While cached files can improve your experience by making things load faster, they can also cause minor bugs and errors. This means that having too many cached files or outdated cached data can be a concern.

READ MORE: Spotify Not Working? – Try these 8 Fixes ➜

How to Fix the Spotify Access 22 Error?

While the Spotify Access 22 Error can be frustrating to encounter, there are several workarounds and fixes that can help you get back to enjoying your music quickly. Let’s have a closer look at all 5 fixes.

1. Update Spotify

Since the most common cause of the issue is an outdated app version, the first fix you should try is updating your Spotify to the latest version available. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to update your Spotify on Windows and Mac:

1. Open up the Spotify app on your Windows or Mac.
   

   

2. Click on the three-dot menu in the top-left corner of the Spotify window.
   

   

3. From the drop-down menu, navigate to Help > About Spotify.
   

   

4. A new window will pop up, displaying the current version of Spotify. If an update is available, you should see a prompt to update Spotify.
   

   

5. Now if you do see a prompt click on it and wait for the update to be downloaded.
   

   

6. Once the update is complete restart Spotify and you should be good to go.

Manually Updating Spotify

You can also manually update Spotify through their website. First, uninstall Spotify by navigating to “Settings” and then “Apps“. Scroll down to find Spotify in the list of apps and click “Uninstall“. After the uninstallation is complete, visit the official Spotify website and download the latest version of the app. Once the download is finished, install the app on your system and complete the setup.

Updating Spotify from the Microsoft Store

If you downloaded Spotify from the Microsoft store you can also update it from there by following these steps:

1. Type in Microsoft Store in the Windows Search bar and open it.
   

   

2. Next, head to your Library from the bottom-left corner and click on Apps.
   

   

3. Click on Get Updates to check for updates for all installed apps, including Spotify.
   

   

4. If Spotify is listed among the apps with available updates, click on the update button next to Spotify to download and install the latest version.

READ MORE: How to Troubleshoot Microsoft Store Not Updating Apps ➜

2. Alternative — Use the Spotify Web Player

If you have updated your Spotify app and are still facing the issue, one quick and simple way to avoid the Access 22 error is to use the Spotify web player rather than the Spotify desktop app. The Spotify web player can be accessed through your browser and since it updates every time you refresh it, you will no longer face the Access 22 error.

However, there are some downsides to using the web player. First and foremost, the web player doesn’t support offline playback so you can’t listen to songs without the internet. On top of that, the performance is also not on par with the desktop app.

READ MORE: How to Fix An Error Occurred in Spotify Web Player? ➜

3. Diagnose Your Internet Connection

If you don’t want to sacrifice performance and features by using the web player, the next thing you can do to make your Spotify app work is to ensure your internet is working smoothly. Check the bars you are receiving on your phone and if you have a wifi connection make sure you are not too far away from the router as wifi signals get weaker as distance to the router increases.

You can perform online speed tests like Fast.com and Ookla to check how well your internet is performing. On the other hand, for PC and laptop users we recommend setting up a wired connection as it’s far more stable and faster compared to a wireless one.

READ MORE: 15 Easy Solutions to Fix Spotify Not Playing Songs [Guide] ➜

4. Clear Cache Data

If you’re using the latest version of the app and still facing the Access 22 error, it could be because of corrupted cache data in the Spotify app. Corrupted cache data can cause your application to think you are using an older version of the app hence causing the Access 22 error. 

To fix this problem you will have to clear cache data. Here is  a step-by-step guide to clearing cache from your Spotify app:

1. Launch the Spotify app and click on your profile in the top right corner.
   

   

2. From the drop-down menu, click on Settings.
   

   

3. Next, navigate to the storage section.
   

   

4. Finally, click the clear cache button to remove previously cached data. Once done, restart Spotify and see if the issue still shows up.
   

   

READ MORE: How to Delete a Playlist in Spotify on Desktop & Mobile [2024] ➜

5. Re-install Spotify

If all the other methods fail it could be that the problem is deep-rooted into the files of your application. For that, you’ll need to re-install the Spotify app.

For Windows

For Windows users, we have already discussed the steps to uninstall and reinstall your Spotify app in Step 1. You can revisit those instructions and follow the steps to reinstall the Spotify app on your Windows computer.

For Mac

For Mac users, start by opening a Finder window. From there, Navigate to “Applications” in the left sidebar. Locate Spotify, right-click on it, and select “Move to Trash“. Afterward, download and install a new copy of Spotify from the official website on your Mac.

READ MORE: What is Spotify Enhance? Here’s How to Use It in 2024 ➜

Enjoy Error Free Music

Encountering errors while trying to listen to music, especially when you want to relax, can be frustrating. While troubleshooting on your own can be annoying, it becomes less of a hassle when the steps are easy, simple, and quick. We hope the steps laid out in our article helped you fix the error in a breeze. Happy streaming!

The post 5 Easy Ways to Fix Spotify Error Code Access Point 22 in 2024 appeared first on Appuals.

Why is Paramount Plus Not Working on Fire TV?

Typically, if any streaming service fails to work, it’s either because of poor internet connection or server downtime. This causes interference in accessing the content you wish to stream. However, some other common causes of Paramount Plus failing to work on your Fire TV include:

• App Glitches: Temporary glitches or bugs within the app can prevent it from working properly.
• Accumulated Cache: Insufficient space on Fire TV, as a result of cache overload, interferes with the app’s functionality.
• Outdated App: An out-of-date or corrupted app version of Paramount Plus can lead to several issues such as the app not working.
• VPN Interference: A VPN may cause interference with the streaming services, hence blocking the app from accessing its servers.

READ MORE: How to Cancel Paramount Plus on Any Device [Easy Guide] ➜

How to Fix Paramount Plus Not Working on Fire TV

Before taking the big step of canceling your Paramount Plus subscription, try some of these fixes instead.

1. Check Internet Connection & Restart Wi-Fi Router

As an internet connection is mandatory for a streaming service to work properly, a weak network connection can give rise to several problems when streaming content such as continuous buffering or the app not working entirely.

To ensure your device is connected to a strong internet connection, check your Wi-Fi speed by visiting fast.com or similar websites. Moreover, a quick fix would be to disconnect the power to your Wi-Fi router and wait for several seconds before plugging it back in.

2. Restart Your Fire TV

Another method is to unplug your TV from the power outlet. Wait a few minutes and plug it back in. This will refresh your device and eliminate any glitches or errors with the Fire TV that may be causing Paramount Plus to not work.

READ MORE: How to Fix the Paramount Plus Error Code 3205 ➜

3. Check Paramount Plus App Server Status

To determine whether the issue is on your end or not, head over to any server status website, such as Downdetector, and check if the Paramount Plus servers are experiencing a downtime, typically associated with server failure or maintenance. Either way, the only option you have is to wait it out until the server is back up again and running effectively.

4. Clear the Paramount Plus App Cache and Data

Still experiencing this issue? Consider freeing up some space on your Fire TV by deleting the accumulated cache and data of Paramount Plus. Doing so will allow Paramount Plus to run more smoothly and effectively as all the corrupted app cache will be removed, therefore fixing any issue related to it.

1. Head over to Settings from your Fire TV and choose Applications.
2. From the Managed Installed Applications section, find and select Paramount Plus.

3. Choose the Clear Cache option.

4. Afterward, select Clear Data.

READ MORE: How to Clear Cache for One Site? ➜

5. Reinstall Paramount Plus App

If the problem persists, it’s likely associated with the specific app version you’re running. An easy solution would be to uninstall the app and reinstall it again. This will help you get rid of any minor bugs or corrupted files causing the app to malfunction and provide you with the latest app version.

1. Go to Settings from the home screen of your Fire TV device.
2. Then, select Applications.

2. After that select the Manage Installed Applications option.

3. Locate Paramount Plus from the list and press the Select button.
4. Then, choose the Uninstall option and confirm the action.
5. To reinstall the app, head back to the home screen and go to Applications.
6. Scroll down and select Get More Apps.
7. From your App Library, choose Not installed.

8. Look for Paramount Plus and select the Download option to get it back on your Fire TV.

6. Disable VPN

While VPNs can quite effectively enable access to restricted apps or services in your location, some streaming services are wary of this fact and hence block such actions. So if you’re currently using a VPN, try turning it off to see if Paramount Plus starts working on your device.

1. Launch the VPN app on your Fire TV by using the remote control.
2. Locate the Off switch or toggle and select it to disable your VPN.

READ MORE: What is the Difference Between a Proxy and VPN? ➜

7. Factory Reset Fire TV

As a last resort, you can reset your Fire TV to its default settings by performing factory reset. This solution will erase all data, including bugs and incorrect settings that might be responsible for Paramount Plus to not work. Retrieve any expandable storage beforehand.

1. On the remote, press and hold the Back button and the Right Navigation button at the same time for several seconds.

2. Select the Reset option from the screen to confirm the action.

8. Contact Support

If nothing else works and you feel as if the issue is beyond what you can fix, you can always count on the support lines of either Amazon Fire TV or Paramount Plus. These streaming services and apps have professional support ready whenever required and will assist you through whatever issue you may be facing.

READ MORE: How to Fix the Paramount Plus Error Code 3205 ➜

Conclusion

Knowing all the workarounds of Paramount Plus not working on your Fire TV, you can easily detect the issue and say goodbye to any interference. So sit back and relax while binge watching your favorite series or plan a movie night with friends and families.

The post 8 Easy Fixes for Paramount Plus Not Working on Fire TV [2024] appeared first on Appuals.

Owned by Disney, this streaming platform provides a vast library of content for its users. But the constant popping up of ads in Hulu’s Standard subscription can be an annoyance, for sure. This can disrupt the whole viewing experience, from a delayed start to your favorite shows to unwanted breaks throughout the streaming.

This is why many users look for a way out, which mainly involves going for Hulu ad blockers. But are they actually reliable? And if so, how do they work? You need to start from the basics.

How Does Hulu Work?

Hulu is one of the leading streaming platforms that offers users with a wide range of movies, TV shows, original series, and live TV. It works on a subscription model, giving users the option to choose one according to their preferences and budgets.

The Standard Hulu plan comes in two main tiers: an ad-supported and an ad-free tier. The main difference between the two is evident from their names. Users can easily create their account from Hulu’s official website and choose their plan accordingly.

However, if you’re someone who spends binge-watching shows on the economical ad-supported tier, you don’t have to upgrade your plan just yet. Instead, you can opt for an ad blocker for Hulu as a long-term solution to enhance your viewing experience.

READ MORE: The 40 Best Anime Shows to Watch on Hulu in 2024!

What is a Hulu Ad Blocker?

Ad blockers, in general, are tools that are capable of blocking online advertisements from websites, streaming platforms, and apps. Apart from that, these ad blockers tend to enhance your browsing speed and reduce bandwidth usage.

When it comes to Hulu, these ad blockers can come in a variety of formats, such as standalone applications, browser extensions, and VPN ad blockers. They work by interfering with the ad requests and stop them from loading, leading to an ad-free streaming experience that you can enjoy.

Even though there’s a range of ad blockers that you may find on the internet, do note that not all of them are reliable. Some may not even work to block Hulu ads while others may cause a malicious program to download on your system.

READ MORE: The 7 Best Ad Blockers for iPhone in 2024 [Free & Paid] ➜

How to Use A Hulu Ad Blocker App

The most popular and reliable way to block ads on Hulu is by using third-party applications. Users can easily install these apps on their computers and stream Hulu without any interruptions.

AdLock is such a standalone app that can be downloaded on various devices, such as Android, Apple, Windows, Mac, etc. It even has specific versions for Edge, Safari, and Chrome. Apart from Hulu, this reliable ad blocker can also help you block ads on other platforms.

1. Go to the official website of AdLock.

1. Click on the Download button to install the app to your device.
2. Once downloaded, launch the app and click on Turn On to watch Hulu ad-free.

Alternatives to AdLock

Although the options for Hulu ad-blocking apps are vast, not every app effectively works as advertised. Therefore, if you don’t intend to use AdLock, you may try other alternatives, such as Blockoda. But standalone applications are not your only option for an ad-free streaming experience.

If you’re streaming Hulu on a browser, you can also eliminate ads through other formats, such as browser extensions and VPN ad blockers.

Browser extensions are add-ons that can be installed to your web browsers to detect and block ads on a range of websites, including Hulu. Among the popular ones are Total Adblock, Ghostery, Hulu Ad Skipper, and uBlock Origin, which are easy to install and available for various browsers and operating systems.

Using a VPN with an in-built ad blocker, such as NordVPN or Surfshark VPN, is another option that allows you to swiftly block ads while streaming on Hulu. These VPNs also provide added privacy and give you a secure and encrypted connection.

READ MORE: How to Fix Ad blockers are not allowed on YouTube Error ➜

Final Verdict

While Hulu ad blockers are preferred by many users to enjoy ad-free streaming experience, there are only a few reliable ones. However, before opting for any ad blocker, consider your options. What are the alternatives? Are there ethical implications attached to such methods?

The ideal choice is to either switch to another streaming service or simply upgrade your plan. In this way, you can continue to enjoy content without compromising your support for the entertainment community and avoid violating Hulu’s terms of service.

The post How to Use Hulu Ad Blocker to Get Rid of Pesky Ads [2024] appeared first on Appuals.

This error can also result from the use of copyrighted music within the clip. Additionally, a poor internet connection and temporary glitches with the browser or Twitch webpage can contribute to this issue. Below are some fixes you might try to resolve this problem.

1. Toggle Off Your Browser’s Extensions

Sometimes, extensions interfere with how web pages load and function, which could be the reason behind the error you’re encountering. Deactivating your browser’s extensions serves a dual purpose; not only does it cut down on the usage of system resources, but it can also eliminate potential conflicts.

1. Open your preferred web browser.
2. Click the 3 dots on the top-right side of your screen.
   
3. Hover your cursor over the Extensions tab, then click the Manage Extensions button.
   
4. At the end of each extension, click on the corresponding toggle box.
   
5. Toggle off each of your extensions one by one.

2. Delete Cookies And Cache Of Your Browser

Over time, these files can become outdated or corrupt, which may lead to problems when loading or playing streams on Twitch.

By deleting this stored data, you eliminate any potential issues that these files could be causing, making sure that Twitch can load the latest version of its pages and function without interference from old data. 

1. Open your preferred web browser.
2. Click the 3 dots at the top-right side of the screen.
   
3. Choose the Clear browsing data option.
   
4. A small window will pop up.
   
5. Select the Time range option and choose All time.
   
6. Deselect the Browsing history option.
7. To delete all cached data and cookies, click the Clear data button.
   

Note: Close and reopen your browser after this step.

3. Re-Login To Your Account

Re-logging in establishes a fresh connection between your account and the Twitch servers, which can fix minor glitches and expired session data, helping to resolve many bugs.

Note: Make sure your internet connection is stable.

1. Open your preferred web browser.
2. Visit the Twitch website.
3. Click your Profile icon.
4. Select the Log Out option.
   
5. Click your profile icon again.
6. Choose the Log In button.
   
7. Enter your Username and Password to continue.
   

Note: Try editing your clip to be just under 60 seconds in length.

Creator’s Side Solution:

Uncheck Subscriber-Only Archives

Disabling the Subscriber-Only Archives setting potentially resolves the clipping error because it removes restrictions on who can create clips. If this setting is enabled, only subscribers can clip streams, which could lead to errors for users who are not subscribed when they attempt to clip.

By unchecking this option, you eliminate the possibility that such permissions issues are causing the problem, thus allowing for smoother clip creation for all viewers.

Note: Make sure the Clips option is enabled in your stream settings.

1. Once again, open you preferred web browser.
2. Visit the Twitch website.
3. Click your Profile icon.
4. Choose the Creator Dashboard option.
   
5. Access the Settings drop-down menu.
   
6. Select the Affiliate option.
7. Uncheck the Subscriber-only archives box.
   

Note: Refresh your Twitch webpage afterward.

If the issue persists, try using a different browser. For further assistance, submit your issue to Twitch contact support.

The post How to Fix “Whoops, Something went wrong” Twitch Clips? appeared first on Appuals.

Serving both individual interests and collective needs, YouTube allows exploration of various fields such as business, entertainment, and education. Yet, amidst its prominence, one may wonder: where did the journey of YouTube truly begin?

The Original Idea Behind YouTube

Let’s travel back to the very origin, when three friends Chad Hurley, Steve Chen, and Jawed Karim (former employees of PayPal) set out to revolutionize the landscape of online videos. Originally, the plan was to set up a video dating website where people would post videos of themselves and find potential matches or talk about their partners. Their initial slogan read, “Tune In, Hook Up.”

Upon seeing no success of this dating site, the founders took it a step further and paid women on Craigslist for participation. However, they soon realized this plan was an unsuccessful attempt, hence the focus shifted to providing people with a platform to share any type of video and connect with others instead.

According to Jawed Karim, the inspiration behind this idea was the lack of online records of events like the wardrobe malfunction of Janet Jackson in the 2004 Super Bowl or the tsunami in the Indian Ocean of the same year.

Fueled by their passion to provide a platform for sharing global experiences, the friends designed a website to post all sorts of content and engage with people worldwide. From these beginnings, YouTube rapidly evolved into the platform we know today.

READ MORE: 5 Easy & Fast Ways to Download YouTube Videos [2024] ➜

When Was YouTube Created?

While the idea took place in 2004, YouTube finally made its mark in the world by being officially registered on 14th February, 2005 in San Mateo, California, US. What began as a simple aspiration to share video content online by the founders Chad Hurley, Steve Chen, and Jawed Karim, eventually took the internet by storm, making a prominent name for itself.

The first ever video to appear on YouTube dates back to April 23, 2005. Titled as “Me at the zoo” this 19-second video was posted by one of the co-founders, Jawed, in which he can be seen standing in the San Diego Zoo, making observations about the elephants’ trunks. As of current statistics, this video has over 813 million views and 16 million likes remarkably.

READ MORE: How to Find Out How Old Is Your Computer – Windows & Mac ➜

A Rundown of YouTube History

The journey of YouTube from the initial stages to the current phenomenon in the modern world did not happen overnight. Rather this dynamic online video-sharing platform has been constantly evolving for over a decade.

1. The Early Stages

After the beta launch of YouTube in 2005 and the success of the first video posted, people started getting a hang of the versatility this site offered. Milestones such as the first video to hit a million views entered the picture when Nike uploaded an ad of the Brazilian soccer player Ronaldinho receiving his Golden Boots. This further led to the promotion of the company.

In December 2005, YouTube was officially launched for the public having around 8 million views on a daily basis. Investment from firms such as Sequoia Capital and Artis Capital Management improved the site’s accessibility and bandwidth, resulting in greater success.

Then in 2006, the Content Verification Program came into being as a result of the copyright infringement case with NBC, which allowed creators to protect their content from copyright issues. Moreover, they striked a deal with YouTube for the promotion of their Fall’s TV lineup, paving the way for profitable partnerships in the future.

It wasn’t long after that Google stepped into the frame and bought the platform for $1.65 billion. The growth after this acquisition was vivid and exceptional that enabled this site to serve as a source of income for many individuals.

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2. The OG Creators

While the people who once ruled YouTube are at different places today, their contribution plays a crucial role in the development of this platform. Videos such as “Charlie Bit My Finger” or “Evolution of Dance” were viral factors in the early days of YouTube.

Starting with NigaHiga or Ryan Higa, his comedy sketches earned him the title of the most subscribed-to channel for 677 days continually. Similarly, Lucas Cruikshank, creating an online persona through the character of Fred, posted videos discussing daily routines. However, he eventually shifted from starring Fred to himself in vlogs.

Fulfilling its entertainment purposes, YouTube thrived on niches related to comedy. Channels such as Smosh and ShaneDawsonTV gained immense popularity for their comedy skits and continued to expand their reach. Moreover, commentary shows like “What the Buck” had a charm of their own.

READ MORE: How to Find & Use the Instagram Clipboard on Android & iOS ➜

3. Shift Towards Monetization

While YouTube initially began as a platform to share and engage via videos, it quickly incorporated other interactive features and tools such as ads, rating, subscriptions, feedback, etc., that changed its dynamic in the online world. The launch of the Partner Program in 2007 allowed people to get paid for their content by monetizing their channels.

In addition, YouTube Live led to the inclusion of politics, sports, and other fields, increasing the range of content covered on this site. People started tuning in for live TV shows, elections, concerts, Olympics, and global events, increasing YouTube’s monthly visitors to billions.

The invention of subscription services such as Music Key for free music streaming, ended up being replaced by YouTube Red (now known as YouTube Premium). It offers a variety of additional services like watching videos in the background or offline (and without ads) while sharing a part of the membership fee with the creators.

Then came the testing of ad pods, with the main objective to increase views and monetization of channels. However, the back-to-back ads, although giving the viewers an option to skip if not suitable for them, proved to be controversial as a petition was filed to remove the idea.

Furthermore, YouTube has recently started featuring AI techniques to form effective ad combinations for its users. By focusing on higher engagement and reach of audience, and providing a variety of ad formats, YouTube aimed to yield better results. The use of algorithms took care of categorizing and showcasing content accordingly.

READ MORE: If You Search Someone on Instagram, Will They Know? ➜

4. The Evolution of YouTube Player

The YouTube player has undergone several changes from the initial set up. When YouTube was newly launched, the video player only had a few controls and a huge logo watermark in the bottom left corner. Gradually, options like the Full Screen, changing playback speed, and automation captions emerged. The addition of new controls has enabled the audience to adjust the video’s playback as per their liking.

5. The Adpocalypse

From 2017 and onwards, YouTube entered a major setback phase called the Adpocalypse which occurred due to a number of factors. Content creators such as PewdiePie faced extreme criticism for creating content considered harsh. Many restrictions were imposed by YouTube regarding the type of content and ads acceptable and violation of these restrictions meant demonetization of channels.

Several big companies including Coca-Cola and Johnson & Johnson either paused or pulled back their ads from YouTube resulting in a massive loss of revenue. The changes in algorithm and strict policies regarding monetization made it difficult for the creators, especially those operating at a small scale, to post appropriate content and earn via YouTube.

READ MORE: YouTube Demonetized 2024 – What Went Wrong and How to Fix It? ➜

6. YouTube Today

Although YouTube suffered great loss by the Adpocalypse, it gave rise to content creators prioritizing transparency like MKBHD and MrBeast. The effort these creators put into their work can be seen by their gradual success, from being an independent entity to becoming a renowned personality and even creating their own brands.

MrBeast, who began by posting videos of stunts and impossible challenges, figured out how to master YouTube’s algorithm all on his own. Now, he is known to be one of the most watched YouTuber and has opened his own website “Beast Philanthropy” and even restaurants! Talk about growing a channel and this entrepreneur is a must mention.

Marques Brownlee, another name dominating in the realm of YouTube, is a prime example of how skills and techniques polish over time and can lead to an independent business.

Starting off as a newbie with a passion in tech, MKBHD began to grow through partnerships with big personalities such as CEO Dennis Woodside and Kobe Bryant, while building up his team and in the long-term creating a brand with firm roots.

READ MORE: How to Download A TikTok Video Without Posting It [2024] ➜

7. Recent Changes & Updates

This era of YouTube diversified the content alongside catering to the audience changing requirements by modifying its features. Adding flexibility to the upload limits and prioritizing quality content, YouTube has ensured authenticity of channels and kept a balanced outlook.

Moreover, incorporating YouTube Studio has maximized the efficiency of the content being uploaded in accordance with the algorithm. By introducing Shorts (which are 60-second vertical videos), YouTube has given creators versatility in making content and increasing monetization.

Similarly, categorized kid’s content through YouTube Kids allows for a more nuanced approach towards creating a suitable environment for viewers. Apart from that, even the smallest updates such as no dislikes shown in current videos or the changes in the layout of the platform have increased accessibility for users and highlight the need for constant evolution for a better user experience.

Today, YouTube ranks as the second most used social media platform on the internet and continues to serve as a dynamic online ecosystem.

READ MORE: How to Unsync Your Facebook and Instagram Accounts in 2024 ➜

The Future of YouTube

While YouTube’s growing significance cannot be denied, the chances of facing pressure from other competitors cannot be overlooked. Hence, to stay in the digital era game, YouTube must stay up-to-date with the ongoing trends and technological advancements, and offer a promising future to the creators and artists.

In the upcoming years, YouTube will focus on exploring other ways for creators to earn money and further increase monetization. While prioritizing a better experience for its users, YouTube aims to implement interactive features that will enhance its effectiveness and viewers reach.

By ensuring a safe community and adhering to strict policies that will address related concerns, the site’s goal is to diversify its content and cater to audiences’ niches. This includes adaptation to different languages, cultures, and regions and users’ demographics.

Moreover, YouTube might work on further incorporating AI for the refinement of its algorithm, allowing for personalized content tailored for each individual. Implementation of AI tools for quick video editing or generating quality captions and descriptions is also a high possibility. To make the platform more engaging and interactive, VR and AR technology integration will enable immersive experiences.

However, it’s critical to note that the future enhancements of YouTube largely depend on factors such as users’ continuous role in creating content, the evolving trends resulting in market shifts and the progression of technology.

The post When Was YouTube Created & Why: Past, Present & Future appeared first on Appuals.