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The Madison Avenue Field GuideA field guide to marketing & advertising, by Brandon Mina

GlossaryCTV, Video & AudioBumper Ad

CTV, Video & Audio

Bumper Ad

A very short, typically six-second, non-skippable video ad designed for reach and quick brand recall, popularized by YouTube.

By Brandon MinaCEO, BrandPilot AIUpdated November 2026

Short answer

A bumper ad is a very short, non-skippable video ad, typically six seconds long, designed to build reach and quick brand recall. Popularized by YouTube, the format suits simple messages and is often used to complement or reinforce longer video creative, since its brevity leaves little room for detailed storytelling.