(Solved!) Unable to Play Video Error 150 on Google Slides

Imagine you're about to deliver a crucial presentation using Google Slides, complete with engaging videos to captivate your audience. However, as you click to play an embedded video, you're met with a frustrating prompt: "Unable to play video. Error: 150".

This common issue, particularly when embedding videos from YouTube or Google Drive, can disrupt your presentations and leave a less-than-stellar impression on audiences. This guide aims to help you solve this real headache - Error 150, ensuring your Google Slides presentations run seamlessly.

Cause: If the video embedded in your Google Slides is set to private, it won't be accessible to your audience, leading to error 150.

Solution:

• Navigate to the video platform (YouTube or Google Drive) and check the video's privacy settings.
• Change the settings to "Public" or "Unlisted".
• Re-embed the video in your Google Slides and test playback to ensure the issue is resolved.

Cause: An incorrect or modified video URL or embed code can disrupt the video's ability to play.

Solution:

• Cross-reference the embed code or URL with the original source to spot any discrepancies.
• Correct any errors and re-embed the video in your Google Slides.
• Test the video in your presentation environment to confirm the fix.

Cause: Videos can be geo-restricted, limiting access based on the viewer's location.

Solution:

• Verify if the video is available in your region by attempting to view it directly on its hosting platform.
• If the video is restricted, you may need to find an alternative video that is accessible in your location or obtain permission from the video owner to use a restricted one.

Cause: Copyright issues or the removal of content from the hosting platform can prevent playback.

Solution:

• Confirm the video's availability and copyright status on its original platform.
• If the video has been removed or is under copyright restrictions, consider using a different video that you have the rights to use or is in the public domain.

Cause: An outdated browser may not support the features necessary for proper video playback.

Solution:

• Check for and install any available browser updates.
• Restart your browser and test the video playback in your presentation.

Cause: Extensions can interfere with the functionality of web-based applications like Google Slides.

Solution:

• Disable all browser extensions and then re-enable them one by one, testing video playback each time to identify the problematic extension.
• Adjust the settings of the identified extension or remove it if necessary.

Cause: Stored cache and cookies can sometimes cause issues with content loading, including video playback.

Solution:

• Clear your browser's cache and cookies through the settings menu.
• Restart the browser and test the embedded video in your Google Slides.

Cause: A weak or unstable internet connection can hinder video streaming.

Solution:

• Test your internet speed and stability. If it's inadequate, try improving your connection or connect to a more reliable network.
• Re-test the video in your presentation after enhancing your connection.

Cause: Sometimes, the issue might be with Google Slides itself due to temporary glitches or bugs.

Solution:

• Log out of your Google account, restart your device, and then log back in to retry accessing the presentation.
• If the problem persists, try accessing your presentation from the Incognito or Private window, a different device or browser to see if the issue is isolated to a specific environment.

Solution: If you've exhausted the above options and still face issues, reaching out to Google's support team can provide additional insights and potential solutions.

A: Always test your videos in Google Slides before the actual presentation, especially if presenting from a different location or network.

A: No, Error 150 is not specific to Google Slides. It can also occur when trying to play embedded videos in other web applications or platforms.

A: The error can occur with YouTube videos due to various factors, including regional restrictions, copyright issues, or changes in YouTube's embedding policies. Try to upload the video to Google Drive and embed it from there.

Navigating through "Unable to play video. Error 150" in Google Slides requires a methodical approach to identify and address the root cause. With this step-by-step tutorial, you can troubleshoot and resolve the issue, ensuring your presentation's embedded videos play smoothly and keep your audience engaged.