YouTube adds option to completely disable Shorts with zero-minute time limit

YouTube has introduced an option to completely disable Shorts by setting a zero-minute time limit on the short-form video feature. The update allows users to effectively remove Shorts from their YouTube apps on Android and iOS devices. Previously, the lowest available time limit was 15 minutes. YouTube first announced the Shorts timer feature in October, then expanded it in January to give parents control over their children’s viewing habits. At that time, YouTube indicated a zero-minute option would arrive soon. According to YouTube spokesperson Makenzie Spiller, the zero-minute setting is now available to all parents and is rolling out to all users, including those with regular adult accounts. The feature can help anyone seeking to reduce time spent scrolling through short videos. When the time limit is reached, the Shorts tab displays only a notification that the feed limit has been reached. Testing shows that setting the limit to zero also removes Shorts from the home screen. To activate the timer, users can navigate to settings in the YouTube app, select “time management,” toggle on the Shorts feed limit, and choose their preferred duration.