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📱 Interstitial

Interstitial ads are full-screen ads that pop up over the content of an app or website. Think of them as a page takeover – they cover the entire screen until the user interacts with them. They're commonly used by publishers to generate revenue.

How They Work​

Interstitial ads appear at natural transition points. This could be:

  • Between levels, after a game over screen, or when returning to the main menu.
  • When navigating between pages, after reading an article, or when completing a specific action.
  • When moving between sections, after finishing a task, or when the app is paused and resumed.

The user has two main options:

  • Interact with the ad: Clicking on the ad takes the user to the advertiser's website or app.
  • Dismiss the ad: The user can close the ad, usually with a clearly visible close button, and return to the app or website content.

Why Publishers Use Interstitial Ads​

  • Revenue Generation: Interstitial ads are often effective at generating revenue due to their high visibility. Because they take up the entire screen, they're more likely to be seen and clicked on than smaller ad formats.
  • High Impact: The full-screen format allows for richer ad experiences, including video and interactive elements, potentially leading to higher engagement.

Important Considerations for Publishers​

  • User Experience is Key: Don't bombard users with interstitial ads. Too many ads can be incredibly annoying and lead to users abandoning your app or website. Find a balance between monetization and a positive user experience.
  • Placement Matters: Place ads at natural transition points. Avoid interrupting users mid-task or in the middle of reading content. Think about where a break naturally occurs in the user's flow.
  • Clear Close Button: Make the close button easy to find and tap. Hidden or misleading close buttons frustrate users and can damage your reputation. Avoid anything that feels like a "trick" to get accidental clicks.
  • Ad Relevance: Try to show ads that are relevant to your audience. This can improve user engagement and make the ads feel less intrusive.
  • Testing and Optimization: Experiment with different frequencies and placements to find what works best for your audience. Track your metrics to see how interstitial ads are impacting user engagement and revenue.

In Simple Terms​

Imagine you're reading a book. An interstitial ad is like a page that suddenly appears, covering the story. You have to look at the ad before you can continue reading. If this happens too often, you might get annoyed and stop reading the book altogether. That's why publishers need to use interstitial ads carefully.