YouTube Introduces New Feature to Disable Shorts, Aiming to Curb Endless Scrolling

In a significant move to address growing concerns around excessive screen time and “doomscrolling,” YouTube has rolled out a new feature that allows users to effectively disable Shorts entirely within the app. The update is part of the platform’s broader push toward digital wellbeing and user control and it is now being gradually made available to users worldwide.

A Built-In Solution to a Growing Problem

Short-form video content, including YouTube Shorts, has seen explosive growth in recent years. While the format has been widely embraced for quick entertainment and discovery, it has also been criticised for encouraging addictive viewing habits.

Recognising this, YouTube has introduced an enhanced “Time Management” tool that allows users to set a daily limit on Shorts consumption. Notably, the latest update introduces a zero-minute option a feature that effectively blocks Shorts from appearing in the app altogether.

This marks a shift from earlier versions of the feature, where the minimum limit was 15 minutes. Now, users can take full control by eliminating Shorts from their experience entirely.

How the Feature Works

The functionality is simple but impactful. Users can access the feature through the app’s settings menu under the Time Management section. Once enabled, the Shorts feed limit can be adjusted based on preference.

Setting the limit to zero minutes triggers an immediate restriction. Instead of displaying videos, the Shorts tab shows a message indicating that the daily limit has been reached. In many cases, Shorts content also disappears from the home feed, significantly reducing exposure to short-form videos.

Unlike third-party tools or workarounds previously used by some users, this solution is built directly into the app, making it more accessible and reliable.

From Parental Control to Mainstream Feature

Initially, the Shorts time limit feature was introduced as part of parental control tools, allowing families to manage how much time children spend on the platform. Over time, YouTube expanded its availability and the latest update extends the zero-minute limit to all users, including adults.

This transition reflects a broader industry trend where features designed for younger audiences are being adapted to help all users manage digital habits more effectively.

Why This Matters Now

The timing of this update is significant. Concerns around excessive screen time, reduced attention spans and digital addiction have been growing globally. Short-form content platforms, in particular, have faced scrutiny for their role in encouraging continuous scrolling.

By allowing users to disable Shorts entirely, YouTube is responding directly to user demand for more control and less distraction. Early reactions suggest the feature could help users regain focus, improve productivity and reduce unnecessary screen time.

Not a Complete Removal, But a Strong Barrier

It is important to note that the feature does not permanently remove Shorts from YouTube. Instead, it acts as a strong restriction by blocking access through the feed once the set limit is reached.

This approach gives users flexibility they can choose to re-enable Shorts at any time while still providing an effective way to break the habit of endless scrolling.

A Step Toward Healthier Digital Habits

With this update, YouTube joins a growing list of platforms attempting to balance engagement with user wellbeing. While the effectiveness of such features ultimately depends on user behaviour, the introduction of a zero-minute limit represents one of the most direct attempts yet to tackle short-form content overuse.

As digital consumption continues to evolve, tools like these may become essential rather than optional especially for users seeking a more mindful and controlled online experience.