YouTube has added a feature which allows users to set a daily time limit for viewing the Shorts feed within the app. Once that limit is reached, a prompt appears saying that scrolling of Shorts is paused for the day.
While the feed is paused, Shorts won’t continue playing in that section (though the user can dismiss the prompt and keep watching).
The feature is currently available on mobile and will be expanded to integrate with parental controls later in the year.
Why is YouTube introducing this timer for Shorts?
- To help users manage screen time and avoid “doom-scrolling” through a seemingly endless stream of Shorts.
- Because short-form video feeds have been shown to encourage prolonged, often unintended viewing sessions, the timer gives users more control.
- It aligns with broader industry moves toward digital wellbeing tools and giving users options to moderate use of platforms.
Key Details to Know
- How to use it: Go into YouTube mobile app → Settings → look for “Shorts feed limit” or similar. (Roll-out may not have reached all users yet.)
- What happens when limit is reached: A pop-up stops further scrolling in the Shorts feed for the day (unless dismissed) and reminds you you’ve hit the limit.
- Parental controls: Not yet active for this feature. A full non-dismissible timer for children and parental control enforcement is expected later. mint
- Feed still visible: Although the designated Shorts feed is paused, Shorts may still appear in other parts of the app—they’re not entirely blocked.
What this means for users
- Better self-control: Users who worry about losing track of time while watching Shorts now have a built-in tool to limit that.
- Mindful viewing: Encourages more intentional usage rather than passive scrolling.
- Work/life balance & sleep: Might help users avoid using the app late at night or during work when they don’t intend to.
- Limitations to be aware of: The prompt is dismissible, meaning it still relies on the user’s willpower; full effectiveness depends on how much you commit to it.
- For parents: While this feature is a good start, parents should note that full parental-control enforcement is not yet active for this timer.
Why this matters in the broader digital & mental-health context
Short-form feeds like Shorts (YouTube), Reels (Instagram) and TikTok’s For You feed have been scrutinised for how they may contribute to time loss, distraction and potential negative impacts on attention/mental health. The roll-out of a timer tool shows platform responsibility is increasing.
For YouTube: It helps the company present itself as supporting healthier digital habits while still keeping users engaged.
For digital wellbeing: Tools like this can help users reclaim time and reduce the “just one more video” effect.
Potential challenges & caveats
- Since the timer is optional and dismissible, many users may ignore it or override the prompt, limiting real behaviour change.
- The feature is gradually rolling out and may not yet be available for all users or all regions. Android Authority
- It currently only affects the Shorts feed; other parts of the app may still lead to extended watching sessions.
- True parental enforcement is still forthcoming, so parents should consider additional monitoring tools until full support is available.
Conclusion
The YouTube timer for Shorts is a thoughtful addition to the app’s suite of wellbeing tools. It gives users a simple yet effective means to set boundaries on how much time they spend scrolling short-form video content. While not a perfect or fully enforced solution—because it still relies on user action and dismissible prompts—it’s a meaningful step toward more mindful screen usage.
