YouTube is finally tackling a well-known scourge among users: the endless scrolling of Shorts videos. A new option spotted in the app should help curb this habit. A simple but smart way to better manage your time spent on the platform.
It looks like YouTube is trying to make its app a little less toxic. A few weeks ago, the platform was already testing an automatic reduction of notifications to limit unnecessary interruptions. Today, it is tackling another underlying problem: the addiction to ultra-short videos. Shorts, with their dynamic format and rapid sequence, hold attention for long minutes, even hours. Google seems to have understood that this spiral can quickly become problematic.
An analysis of the code of the beta version 20.15.32 of the application reveals a new feature in preparation. This takes the form of a dedicated timer to Shorts, independent of the “Take a Break” reminder already present on YouTube. The idea is simple: allow users to set a daily limit on viewing time. Once this time is reached, the application will block automatic scrolling.
Infinite scrolling of Shorts will be suspended once the limit is reached
The user can choose the duration that suits them best, whether 15 minutes, 1 hour or more. When the threshold is reached, a notification will be displayed to warn that the limit has been exceeded. It will still be possible to watch Shorts videos occasionally, via search results or the home page, but automatic linking will be disabled until the next day. This measure aims to break the hypnotic rhythm of scrolling without completely depriving the user of content.
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This feature is not yet visible in the current interface, but its presence in the code shows that its launch is seriously considered. With over 70 billion views per day on Shorts, YouTube is undoubtedly looking to limit excess while avoiding too abrupt a cut. This more responsible approach shows a desire to make the application healthier for daily use. It remains to be seen whether users will play the game and actually activate this new option.
Source: Android Authority
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