Many users find themselves overwhelmed by the constant stream of vertical video on the platform, wishing to reclaim a more traditional browsing experience. If you are wondering how do i turn off youtube shorts, you are not alone. The following guide will walk you through the specific steps required to disable this feature across various devices, ensuring your feed reflects your content preferences.
Understanding YouTube Shorts
Before learning how to disable the feature, it is helpful to understand what Shorts are. These are vertical videos that last 60 seconds or less, designed to be consumed quickly within the YouTube app. They occupy a dedicated section in the Home feed and are often served algorithmically, which can disrupt a user’s planned viewing session.
Disabling Shorts on the YouTube App (Android/iOS)
The primary method for managing content is through the mobile application. The interface is designed to provide user control, but the setting is hidden within a menu rather than displayed prominently on the main screen. To regain control of your feed, follow these steps directly within the app.
Step-by-Step Mobile Instructions
Open the YouTube application on your smartphone or tablet.
Locate and tap the profile icon in the top right corner of the screen.
From the dropdown menu, select "Settings."
Navigate to the "General" tab and look for the "Shorts" section.
Tap the toggle switch next to "Shorts" to turn it off. The interface will usually confirm that "Shorts will be hidden."
Managing Shorts on Desktop Web Browser
Users who prefer the larger screen of a computer monitor will find the process slightly different on the web version. While the algorithm functions similarly, the location of the settings is distinct. The goal is the same: to filter out the vertical format from your homepage.
Adjusting Web Settings
To adjust the feed on a computer, you must utilize the filter options available on the homepage itself. Unlike the mobile app, there is no global "off" switch in the account settings that removes Shorts entirely from YouTube. Instead, you hide the feed section, which effectively answers how do i turn off youtube shorts on the web interface.
Sign in to your account on the YouTube website.
On the Home page, locate the "Shorts" section below the search bar.
Click the three dots (ellipsis) icon located at the top right corner of the Shorts panel.
Select "Don't recommend shorts" from the dropdown menu.
Confirm the action if prompted. This action filters the content without altering your overall account settings.
The Limitations of Filtering
It is important to set realistic expectations regarding this process. When you disable the feature, you are not deleting existing content or blocking the channel entirely. Instead, you are instructing the algorithm to deprioritize that specific format. Occasionally, a Shorts video might still appear if the recommendation is particularly strong or if you have actively searched for it. This is a reflection of the platform’s attempt to match viewer intent rather than a failure of the setting.
Reverting the Changes
Should you decide that you miss the visual format or wish to explore trending music and comedy, reversing the process is straightforward. The steps are identical to those used to disable the feature; you simply toggle the switch back to the "on" position on mobile, or click "Clear" next to the filter on desktop. This flexibility allows users to adapt their environment as their interests evolve over time.
