YouTube is rolling out a new YouTube Shorts timer to help users manage their screen time. It’s a simple but powerful feature that reminds you when it’s time to take a break from scrolling.
The feature is available to everyone. You can set a daily viewing limit in the app settings, and once you reach that limit, a pop-up appears suggesting you take a short break.
Sure, you can still dismiss it with one tap — but it’s a helpful reminder of how long you’ve been watching short clips and random videos.
YouTube Shorts timer for families
Right now, the YouTube Shorts timer only works on personal accounts. However, YouTube plans to expand it with parental control tools next year. Parents and guardians will soon be able to set time limits for their kids.
Unlike regular reminders, this one can’t be dismissed by children — meaning bedtime scrolling sessions might finally end for good.
YouTube’s digital well-being focus
YouTube has spent years developing digital well-being features like “take a break” reminders and bedtime alerts. The new Shorts timer builds on that foundation and specifically targets one of its most addictive formats.
The company’s renewed focus isn’t random. Social media platforms face mounting pressure to reduce addictive designs. Thousands of lawsuits accuse them of promoting endless scrolling through algorithmic feeds and push notifications.
The new YouTube Shorts timer might not fix everything, but it’s a welcome step toward healthier digital habits — and maybe even a better night’s sleep.