YouTube Shorts have become a major feature on the platform, offering short-form, vertical video content similar to TikTok or Instagram Reels. While Shorts have gained popularity among content creators and younger audiences, not everyone appreciates this format. Many users are looking for ways to disable or hide YouTube Shorts from their feeds. If you’re one of them, this comprehensive guide is for you.
In this article, we’ll explore multiple methods to disable YouTube Shorts on mobile and desktop, discuss why people might want to remove them, and provide tips for customizing your YouTube experience.
Why Do People Want to Disable YouTube Shorts?
There are several reasons why users seek to remove or hide YouTube Shorts:
- Preference for long-form content: Some users prefer traditional, long-form YouTube videos and find Shorts disruptive.
- Avoid distraction: Shorts are designed to be engaging and fast-paced, which can make them addictive. Disabling them helps minimize distractions.
- Improve focus: Users looking to use YouTube for educational or professional content may find Shorts irrelevant.
- Cleaner interface: Removing Shorts declutters the YouTube homepage and makes navigation more streamlined.
Whatever your reason, let’s look at the available ways to disable or hide YouTube Shorts.
Method 1: Use the “Not Interested” Option
One of the simplest ways to reduce the appearance of Shorts on your YouTube feed is by using the “Not interested” feature.
1. Open the YouTube app or website.
2. Scroll to the Shorts section.
3. Tap or click the three-dot menu next to a Short.
4. Select “Not interested”.
5. Repeat for a few more Shorts.
Note: This doesn’t permanently remove Shorts but helps train YouTube’s algorithm to stop suggesting them.
Method 2: Use YouTube in a Mobile or Desktop Browser
YouTube’s web version doesn’t emphasize Shorts as heavily as the mobile app. Using YouTube in a browser can give you a more traditional experience.
1. Open your browser and go to youtube.com.
2. Log in to your account.
3. Browse videos as usual.
By avoiding the mobile app, you’ll see fewer Shorts or none at all, depending on your region.
Method 3: Downgrade the YouTube App (Android Only)
Some older versions of the YouTube app don’t support Shorts. If you’re using an Android device, downgrading the app can help.
1. Go to your phone’s Settings > Apps > YouTube.
2. Tap Uninstall Updates.
3. If prompted, confirm the downgrade.
4. Disable automatic updates in the Play Store to keep the older version.
Warning: This method may affect overall app functionality and is not officially recommended.
Method 4: Use YouTube Vanced or ReVanced (Android Only)
YouTube Vanced and its successor ReVanced are modified versions of the YouTube app that include customization options.
Features:
- Block Shorts.
- Disable ads.
- Background playback.
Steps:
1. Download the Vanced Manager or ReVanced Manager from their official sources.
2. Install the YouTube variant.
3. Use the settings to disable Shorts.
Disclaimer: These apps are not officially supported by Google. Use at your own risk.
Method 5: Use a Third-Party YouTube Client (Desktop)
If you’re on a desktop, you can use browser extensions or third-party YouTube clients that offer more control over your viewing experience.
Popular Options:
- uBlock Origin: Block Shorts using custom filters.
- Enhancer for YouTube: Offers various customization tools.
Custom Filter Example (for uBlock Origin):
youtube.com###shortsSteps:
1. Install uBlock Origin from your browser’s extension store.
2. Go to Settings > My Filters.
3. Paste the filter and click Apply.
Method 6: Customize the Home Feed
Another non-invasive way to minimize Shorts is to customize your YouTube home feed.
Tips:
- Regularly click “Not interested” on Shorts.
- Subscribe to long-form content creators.
- Use the “Don’t recommend channel” option for Shorts-heavy creators.
Over time, YouTube’s algorithm will adapt to your preferences.
Will YouTube Ever Add an Official Option to Disable Shorts?
As of now, YouTube does not provide an official way to completely turn off Shorts. However, user demand for such a feature is growing. You can provide feedback directly to YouTube:
1. Open YouTube.
2. Click on your profile picture.
3. Select “Send feedback”.
4. Politely request a feature to disable or hide Shorts.
The more users request this feature, the higher the chances of YouTube taking action.
Final Thoughts
YouTube Shorts are here to stay, but that doesn’t mean you have to see them if you don’t want to. Whether you choose to train the algorithm, use third-party tools, or switch to the browser version, there are ways to reduce or even eliminate Shorts from your YouTube experience.
Each method comes with its pros and cons, and the best one for you will depend on your device and preferences. For Android users, Vanced or ReVanced offers the most comprehensive solution. For desktop users, browser extensions provide a quick and effective workaround.
Until YouTube offers an official “disable Shorts” option, these techniques can help you regain control over your content feed.