YouTube is introducing several new features for Shorts, with the rollout taking place over the coming days and weeks. The update focuses on improving the viewing experience and giving users more control while watching short videos.
One of the biggest additions is a new Clear Screen mode. This feature expands Shorts to fill the entire screen. It also hides all on-screen text, buttons, and other interface elements. As a result, users can enjoy videos without distractions. The hidden controls return once Clear Screen mode is turned off.
In addition, YouTube Shorts is getting a new 2x playback option. This allows users to watch videos at twice the normal speed. The feature is useful for those who want to move through content more quickly.
YouTube is also changing the way users react to Shorts. The platform is replacing the thumbs-up button with a heart icon. This change aims to make interactions feel more personal.
Furthermore, muting a Short is now much simpler. Users only need to pause a video by tapping the screen. After that, they can tap the new mute button to turn off the audio.
The platform is also removing the dislike button from Shorts. Instead, users will see more useful feedback options. These include “Not interested” and “Don’t recommend this channel.” YouTube believes these choices will help users improve their recommendations more effectively.
The new features will become available gradually over the next few days and weeks. They reflect YouTube’s ongoing efforts to make Shorts easier to use while offering a cleaner and more personalized viewing experience.
