YouTube is rolling out several new features to Shorts that make its short-form video platform look even more like TikTok.
The update introduces a new Clear Screen mode that removes on-screen buttons, captions, and other interface elements, giving viewers a cleaner, distraction-free experience while watching videos.
The platform is also replacing the familiar thumbs-up button with a heart icon, matching the design used by TikTok and other popular social media apps. In addition, YouTube is introducing a new way to watch Shorts at twice the normal speed. Users can temporarily speed up playback by holding the edge of the screen, while swiping down after pressing the video locks the playback at 2x speed until changed.
Another new feature allows viewers to quickly mute a Short by tapping the video and selecting the mute option. These additions closely mirror features that TikTok has offered for years, including its own Clear Mode, heart-shaped like button, and adjustable playback speeds.
Alongside the new features, YouTube is removing the dislike button from Shorts. Instead of disliking a video, users are encouraged to provide feedback through the three-dot menu by selecting options such as “Not interested” or “Don’t recommend this channel.” The changes are designed to simplify the Shorts interface while giving users more control over their viewing experience.
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