YouTube Expands Shorts Ads With Comments

YouTube has rolled out several updates to how Shorts ads work, introducing comment sections on eligible ads, new linking options for creators, and wider ad placement across mobile web browsers.

The changes reflect YouTube’s push to make Shorts a stronger advertising channel, particularly as brands prepare campaigns for peak seasonal periods.

One of the main updates is the introduction of comments on Shorts ads. Eligible ads can now include a comments section, bringing them in line with the interactive experience users already expect from organic Shorts. To enable this feature, advertisers must have their YouTube channel connected to a Google Ads or DV360 account. Any comments left on ads can be moderated using the standard tools available in YouTube Studio.

YouTube has also added a new option for creators working on branded Shorts. Creators can now include direct links to a brand’s website within their content. When viewers tap the link, they are taken straight to the advertiser’s site, creating a clearer path from discovery to action.

Another significant update is the expansion of Shorts ads to mobile web browsers. Until now, these ads mainly appeared within the YouTube mobile app. With this change, users watching YouTube through mobile browsers will also start seeing Shorts ads. The format already runs across mobile apps, desktop, and connected TVs, so this move further broadens reach.

From an advertising perspective, these changes add new ways to drive engagement. Comments allow audiences to interact with ads more naturally, while creator links help turn branded content into measurable website traffic. The mobile web rollout also opens access to viewers who prefer browsing YouTube without using the app.

Looking ahead, YouTube highlighted findings from Kantar showing that Creator Ads on Shorts increase purchase intent by nearly 9% and generate significantly higher spending interest compared with competing platforms.

In terms of format, Shorts ad specifications remain unchanged. Vertical video is still recommended, ads can be up to three minutes long, but only the first 60 seconds will play in the Shorts feed. Videos under 60 seconds continue to be the preferred option, as they better match how users typically engage with Shorts content.