YouTube Shorts Gets a Speed Boost and a Fresh New Look

In a bid to enhance user experience, YouTube is introducing a series of updates to its Shorts feature. The most notable change is the ability to double the playback speed of short-form videos, allowing users to quickly absorb information or find their favorite moments. This move is designed to make the most of the already brief nature of Shorts, providing a more efficient viewing experience. Additionally, YouTube is revamping its feedback system, replacing the dislike button with 'Not Interested' and 'Don't recommend this channel' options.

Users can now show appreciation for content with a heart emoji instead of a thumbs up. The platform is also introducing a 'Clear Screen mode' that hides icons and text, giving users an uncluttered view of their content. These updates aim to create a more intuitive and engaging Shorts experience. Although the exact rollout dates are unclear, the changes are expected to take effect over time.

With YouTube Shorts averaging 200 billion daily views as of June 2025, these updates are likely to further boost user engagement. The platform has seen significant growth since its launch in 2024, with users increasingly watching Shorts on their TV screens, consuming up to 2 billion hours of content per month.

Source: TechCrunch