YouTube adds a Shorts timer to curb doomscrolling; parental controls coming next year

YouTube is rolling out a new Shorts timer aimed at reducing endless scrolling. Users can set a daily time limit for Shorts inside the app; once the limit is reached, a “take a break” pop-up appears as a nudge to stop. The feature follows earlier well-being tools like general break reminders and bedtime prompts.

How it works

• Set a daily limit for Shorts in YouTube’s settings.
• When you hit the limit, a reminder pop-up appears to encourage a break. (It can be dismissed by adults.)
• Parental controls integration is planned for next year, letting guardians set enforced time limits for kids that cannot be dismissed.

Why YouTube is doing this

• Digital well-being remains a focus across platforms, especially for short-form feeds that are easy to binge.
• The move comes as social apps face increased scrutiny and lawsuits alleging addictive design patterns.

What’s available today vs. what’s coming

• Available now: Shorts timer (user-set daily limits with break pop-ups), existing take-a-break reminders and bedtime reminders.
• Coming next year: Family controls to set non-dismissible limits for children’s accounts.

Tips to use the Shorts timer effectively

• Start with a realistic limit (e.g., 15–30 minutes) and adjust weekly.
• Combine with bedtime reminders to avoid late-night scrolling.
• Use Focus/DND modes on your phone during work or study sessions.

Learn more:
YouTube Digital Wellbeing ·
YouTube time watched & break reminders (Support)

Note: Parental controls for the Shorts timer are expected next year; details may change as YouTube finalizes implementation.

Discussion: Will a built-in Shorts timer actually help you curb doomscrolling—or do you need stricter, non-dismissible limits to make a difference?