Identify the lock you enabled
YouTube’s Lock screen command is a player feature for avoiding unintended taps or swipes while watching. It should not be confused with the device passcode or a system restriction that keeps a child in one app. Before diagnosing it as broken, note whether the interruption occurred in the video player, during an advert or when an in-app notification appeared.
Read the temporary exception
YouTube says its player remains locked until unlocked, but some in-app notifications and adverts can temporarily permit screen interaction. After the notification is dismissed or the advert finishes, the locked state continues. Its documented unlock flow shows the lock control when the player is tapped, followed by Tap to unlock. The temporary interaction does not necessarily mean the original player-lock command was ignored.
Use a practical accidental-touch example
A viewer resting a phone against a stand may enable player lock to avoid brushing the progress bar. If controls become interactive during an advert, wait for the ordinary programme to resume and observe whether the lock returns. Do not repeatedly toggle unrelated operating-system locks while trying to compare this app behaviour. Keep the device in a stable position so accidental touches do not obscure the observation.
Choose another control for a different requirement
If the actual need is account access protection or supervised device use, review the relevant system or account controls separately. This player feature is documented for touch disruption, not as proof of either outcome. A useful support report names the type of content and the temporary state in which interaction occurred. It need not include account credentials or a recording of an entire advert.
Questions, answered
Does temporary interaction during an advert necessarily mean lock failed?
No. YouTube explicitly documents temporary interaction exceptions for some adverts and in-app notifications.