YouTube is looking into potentially offering a feature that would allow users to set a daily timer to limit how long they spend on Shorts.
Recent findings from the beta version of the YouTube app, first reported by Android Authority, suggest that the platform is developing a feature to help users stop the endless scrolling through Shorts.
YouTube confirmed to TechCrunch that, while this feature is not currently being publicly tested, it is “exploring this for the future,” a company spokesperson said.
The code indicates the daily timer allows users to set a specific number of hours. Once the allotted time runs out, Shorts will pause, making it unavailable for the remainder of the day. However, there’s also mention of viewers still being able to see “individual Shorts,” meaning it doesn’t block access to all short videos entirely.
YouTube already has a “Take a Break” reminder that users can enable for regular-length videos on the platform.
YouTube’s exploration into the anti-doomscrolling area follows a growing trend among users who are downloading apps dedicated to limiting their screentime. There are even devices, such as this fob, that temporarily lock certain apps on users’ phones, highlighting the increasing concern about social media addiction. Tech giants such as Apple and Google also provide tools for users looking to manage their doomscrolling habits.
