YouTube Introduces Option to Turn Off Shorts and Avoid Doomscrolling

In a significant update, YouTube has introduced a new feature that allows users to completely remove Shorts from their home screen. This YouTube Shorts update is part of an improved time management tool designed to give users better control over their screen time.

The new feature lets users set the Shorts timer to zero, effectively disabling Shorts from appearing on the home feed. This move comes as conversations around social media addiction and screen time continue to grow.

Shorts Timer Update Gives Full Control to Users

The updated YouTube Shorts timer now includes an option to set a time limit as low as zero. This means users can stop Shorts from appearing entirely once the limit is reached.

Earlier, the minimum time limit available was 15 minutes. With this latest update, YouTube is offering more flexibility to users who want to reduce distractions and manage their time better.

How to Remove YouTube Shorts From Your Feed

If you want to remove YouTube Shorts from your home screen or limit your usage, the process is simple. Go to the settings section in the YouTube app, select “Time management,” enable the Shorts feed limit, and choose your preferred time.

Setting the limit to zero will remove Shorts from the home screen, helping users avoid endless scrolling.

Update Comes After Social Media Addiction Lawsuit

This YouTube Shorts feature arrives shortly after a major development in a social media addiction case in Los Angeles. A US jury found Meta and YouTube liable in a lawsuit that alleged their platforms were designed to be addictive and harmful to children.

The case highlighted growing concerns about how digital platforms impact user behaviour, especially among younger audiences.

Lawsuit Details and Allegations

The lawsuit was filed against Meta’s Instagram, ByteDance’s TikTok, and Google’s YouTube. The plaintiff claimed she was harmed as a child due to addictive features on these platforms.