California Bans Loud Ads on Streaming Services

On July 1, it will be illegal for streaming platforms to play ads louder than the content being watched in California. California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill (SB 576) in October 2025 that prohibits any video streaming service from transmitting the “audio of commercial advertisements louder than the video content the advertisements accompany” in the state. The law brings some parity between streaming services and broadcast, cable, and satellite TV providers, which, under The Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation (CALM) Act, can only play commercials at “the same average volume as the programs they accompany,” the FCC says.

This move aims to protect viewers from jarring, loud commercials while watching their favorite shows. The law will have significant implications for the streaming industry, as it will require platforms to adjust their ad playback volumes to match the content. This change will likely be welcomed by consumers, who have long complained about the jarring experience of loud ads interrupting their viewing.

Why this matters: The new law in California sets a precedent for regulating ad volumes on streaming services, which could have broader implications for the industry. As streaming platforms continue to grow in popularity, ensuring a seamless viewing experience is crucial. This law will likely prompt other states to consider similar regulations, potentially leading to a national standard.

Developers and businesses will need to adapt their ad playback technology to comply with the new law, which may involve investing in new software or adjusting their content delivery systems. For consumers, this means a more enjoyable viewing experience, free from jarring loud ads. However, it remains to be seen how effectively the law will be enforced and what exceptions, if any, will be made for certain types of content or advertising.