Can you disable youtube shorts

Why Users Want to Disable Shorts

YouTube Shorts is Google's response to TikTok and Instagram Reels, featuring short vertical videos. While popular with many users, others find Shorts distracting, addictive, or unsuitable for their needs. Parents want to restrict Shorts for children, educators prefer long-form content, and some users simply prefer traditional YouTube videos. Understanding your options can help you customize your YouTube experience.

Desktop Browser Settings

On YouTube's web interface, you have several options. Access Settings through your account menu and adjust "Shorts" in the Playback section. You can limit Shorts appearance in your feed and recommendations. However, YouTube does not offer a complete disable option on the web platform. Browser extensions provide additional control—extensions designed for YouTube privacy and content filtering can block Shorts feeds entirely by hiding them from your interface.

Mobile App Adjustments

The YouTube mobile app includes "Settings" options accessible through your account menu. Navigate to "Content Preferences" and adjust recommendation settings. While mobile app control is more limited than desktop, you can manage notifications and adjust your search and watch history to influence recommendations. Clearing your history and marking videos as "Not Interested" trains the algorithm to reduce Shorts suggestions.

Parental Controls and Restricted Mode

If you're managing accounts for children or want strict content control, YouTube's Restricted Mode limits access to potentially mature content, including many Shorts. Family Link, Google's parental control service, offers comprehensive restrictions including disabling Shorts entirely for linked child accounts. These tools require account setup but provide the most complete control available.

Third-Party Browser Extensions

Several extensions modify YouTube's interface to hide Shorts. Extensions like "YouTube Nonstop" or general ad blockers with custom filters can remove Shorts feeds. Extensions also prevent autoplay and provide additional customization. Install extensions only from reputable sources, and review their privacy policies before granting permissions.