YouTube is rolling out a new feature aimed at curbing endless scrolling through Shorts. Mobile users can now set a customizable daily time limit that pauses their Shorts feed once they’ve hit their self-imposed viewing cap.
When the limit is reached, a notification appears saying Shorts has been paused for the day — though users can dismiss it if they choose. The feature mirrors similar tools from Instagram and TikTok, but unlike TikTok, YouTube’s limits currently apply only to mobile users.
“Shorts are a core part of the YouTube experience,” the company said in its announcement. “Setting a scrolling time limit allows for exploration while helping users manage their time more effectively.”
Users can find the new option under their YouTube account settings, though the rollout will be gradual and may take time to appear for everyone.
YouTube also revealed plans to extend the feature to parental controls later this year, allowing parents to set non-dismissable limits to help manage kids’ screen time.