Show HN: Skipper, a YouTube sponsor skipper using Ask Gemini and SponsorBlock (chromewebstore.google.com)

Skipper has launched a new tool designed to enhance YouTube viewing by automatically skipping sponsor segments, providing AI-generated audience ratings, and tracking individual watch time. Utilizing the SponsorBlock community database, Skipper identifies promotional segments in videos without requiring user sign-in. Additionally, for videos not covered by this database, users can leverage the Gemini AI's "Ask about this video" feature for real-time analysis. As segments are detected during playback, viewers receive notifications and visual markers on their progress bar, improving the overall viewing experience. This innovation is significant for the AI/ML community as it showcases how AI can enhance user engagement with video content while prioritizing privacy. Skipper employs privacy-preserving techniques by ensuring that no personally identifiable information is collected. The AI-generated audience ratings are based on a video’s comments and offer insights into viewer sentiment, which could prove valuable for content creators and marketers alike. With features such as local caching for faster access and the ability to track watching habits privately, Skipper aims to provide an efficient and tailored approach to the YouTube viewing experience.