YouTube has quietly removed the guest account feature from its TV app,

Stembolt

YouTube has quietly removed the guest account feature from its TV app, forcing users to either log in with a Google account or remain logged out entirely

YouTube has quietly removed the guest account feature from its TV app, forcing users to either log in with a Google account or remain logged out entirely. This change, impacting smart TVs, streaming devices, and game consoles, has raised concerns about privacy, convenience, and the potential disruption to viewing habits in multi-user households. The move eliminates the easy option for casual viewing or allowing guests to quickly access YouTube without affecting the primary user’s recommendations and viewing history.

InternetJeff

Stembolt

On Roku you can (presumably) use the "Use signed out" button (see screenshot). But I even bypass that. After launching the YouTube app on Roku, but before it fully loads, I hit the Home button on the Roku remote, and then immediately relaunch the Roku app. It short circuits the entire process, and presto, I'm in and not signed in to any account.

InternetJeff

Stembolt

p.s. As far as ads in the YouTube app on Roku are concerned, there was a procedure to jailbreak Roku and disable the ad system. It's been while since I first read that procedure, and I've forgotten where it's documented. Beyond the scope of this topic, but suffice it to say that once you stop seeing ads you forget they were ever there.

ElQuintron

I installed SmartTube a while back, and never looked back. It's algorithm/suggestion engine isn't as good as YT's but the lack of ads is great. I'm thinking of moving to Peertube soon and only using YT as needed.

InternetJeff

ElQuintron

Not to veer too far off topic, but NewPipe is a good alternative for Android also.

https://newpipe.net/

ElQuintron

InternetJeff I use NewPipe on my phone and SmartTube on my Nvidia Shield.