YouTube is testing a new feature that could help users curb endless scrolling on its Shorts platform. The tool, still in beta, would allow viewers to set daily time limits for Shorts consumption, temporarily blocking access to the feed once the allotted time expires. This move aligns with growing industry-wide efforts to address digital fatigue and compulsive scrolling behaviors—often dubbed ‘doomscrolling.’ While users could still watch individual Shorts if shared directly, the full feed would remain restricted until the next day.
The Rise of Short-Form Video Scrutiny
This isn’t YouTube’s first attempt at promoting mindful viewing. The platform already offers ‘Take a Break‘ reminders for longer videos. But why focus specifically on Shorts? Unlike traditional videos, short-form content is designed for rapid consumption, often triggering dopamine-driven loops that keep users engaged far longer than intended. A [TechCrunch report](https://techcrunch.com/2025/04/11/youtube-considers-a-daily-timer-for-users-looking-to-cut-back-on-shorts/) notes that platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels face similar criticisms, with lawmakers and health experts urging stronger user protections.
How It Compares to Existing Tools
| Feature | ‘Take a Break’ Reminders | Proposed Shorts Timer |
|---|---|---|
| Enforcement | Suggestion-only | Hard cutoff |
| Scope | All video content | Shorts feed only |
| User Control | Customizable intervals | Daily time limit |
Critics argue that timers may feel paternalistic, but proponents highlight their potential to reduce compulsive use. ‘Self-regulation tools only work if they’re enforceable,’ notes a digital wellness researcher cited in early beta feedback. ‘This shifts accountability from sheer willpower to systemic design.’
The feature’s fate hinges on user feedback during testing—no official rollout date has been announced. Yet its mere consideration signals a pivotal shift: platforms are finally acknowledging that maximizing engagement shouldn’t come at the cost of user well-being. Whether timed sessions will ‘break the scroll cycle’ remains uncertain, but for YouTube, it’s a calculated step toward balancing addiction mechanics with healthier habits.
