Short-form video addiction is real—and YouTube knows it. I’ve just come across a promising update that could change how we engage with YouTube Shorts. Based on findings from a beta version of the YouTube app (first reported by Android Authority), YouTube is experimenting with a daily timer feature that would let us limit how long we scroll through Shorts each day. Let’s dive into what this feature could mean for us and why it’s such a timely move.
YouTube Is Testing a Feature to Curb Doomscrolling
I’ve seen countless social media users struggle to put down their phones, especially with never-ending content like Shorts. YouTube seems to be listening. A company spokesperson confirmed to TechCrunch that while this feature isn’t yet available to the public, it is being explored for the future.
According to leaked code, the timer will allow us to set a specific number of hours for watching Shorts. Once the limit is hit, Shorts pause entirely—at least in bulk. Interestingly, YouTube still hints at access to “individual Shorts,” suggesting it won’t be a total lockdown.
YouTube Already Has Tools, But This One Is Different
If you’re like me and have used YouTube’s “Take a Break” reminders for long-form videos, you’ll notice this upcoming timer is a step further. Instead of passive nudges, it introduces a hard stop. That shift shows how seriously YouTube is taking our need for healthier digital habits.
This move isn’t just about UX—it’s about wellness. We’ve seen a rise in digital detox tools, from apps that block social platforms to hardware like key fobs that restrict screen use. YouTube entering this space makes a strong statement: even tech giants know our habits need a reset.
Why a Shorts Timer Could Make a Big Difference
Let’s be honest—Shorts are dangerously easy to binge. They’re fast, catchy, and endless. Giving users like me control over how long we spend watching them could be a game-changer. Instead of falling into a doomscrolling spiral, we could enjoy content intentionally.
Think of it like digital portion control. I wouldn’t be surprised if this timer becomes a must-use feature for students, professionals, and parents alike.
Tech Giants Are Prioritizing Digital Wellness
YouTube isn’t alone. Apple and Google have both invested heavily in tools to manage screen time. This new feature from YouTube shows they’re taking the same path—focusing on user well-being and mental health, not just engagement metrics.
I personally appreciate when platforms think long-term about their users, and this move suggests YouTube is doing just that.
A Win for Mindful Viewing
While we wait for this feature to roll out officially, I think it’s a positive signal. YouTube’s willingness to experiment with ways to reduce addictive behavior could mark the start of a more mindful content era. And if it means I spend less time glued to my phone and more time being present, I’m all in.
I'll keep an eye on further updates and let you know once this goes public. Until then, maybe it’s time to manually set that screen time limit—and take that well-deserved break.
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