Pre-roll ads are short video advertisements that play before the main content, such as a YouTube video or a streaming service program. These ads typically last between 5 to 30 seconds and are designed to capture the viewer's attention before they engage with their chosen content. Advertisers use pre-roll ads to promote products or services, aiming to reach a wide audience. Viewers often have the option to skip the ad after a few seconds, which can impact the effectiveness of the advertisement. Overall, pre-roll ads are a common strategy in digital marketing.