The traditional square stop-button has been disappearing from media players across the board.

This seems like a deliberate trend; a subtle tactic to keep you "captive" - don't present the user with any obvious option to stop watching and they will be less likely to think to.

Netflix
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HBO
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Youtube
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mindplaydk
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December 30, 2020

Adalytics alleges that YouTube appears to set long-lasting cookies specifically for users who are watching videos labeled "for kids." It also suggested that serves “targeted ads on YouTube videos that are clearly labeled as 'for kids.'"

Youtube
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Thomas Claburn
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August 18, 2023

You can choose to turn on your watch history to get recommended videos, or stick with a simpler home page.

Youtube
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Gael Fashingbauer Cooper
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August 9, 2023

"Adalytics alleges that YouTube appears to set long-lasting cookies specifically for users who are watching videos labeled "for kids." It also suggested that serves targeted ads on YouTube videos that are clearly labeled as 'for kids.'""

Youtube
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Deceptive Patterns
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August 24, 2024

"YouTube Will Display a Blank Home Feed if Your Watch History Is Turned Off"

Youtube
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Deceptive Patterns
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August 24, 2024