YouTube has rolled out a new ‘Daily Viewing Limit’ feature aimed at encouraging users to manage their screen time more effectively. The update is designed to help people develop healthier digital habits, particularly when it comes to watching short-form content on YouTube Shorts.
According to the company, users can now set a daily limit on how long they wish to spend watching Shorts. Once the selected time is reached, the feed will automatically pause, and a notification will appear on the screen encouraging the viewer to take a break.
The platform said the goal is to give users more control over their digital experience and reduce the risk of overconsumption of bite-sized content. With the growing popularity of YouTube Shorts, which competes directly with TikTok and Instagram Reels, this move aims to balance engagement with well-being.
Experts have welcomed the decision, saying it’s a step toward responsible tech use. Social media platforms have often faced criticism for fueling addictive scrolling patterns, especially among younger audiences. The new feature could help mitigate those effects by reminding users to take regular breaks.
YouTube stated that the feature will be available globally in phases, allowing users to customize their limits based on personal preferences. Notifications can also be turned off for those who prefer uninterrupted viewing.
This addition aligns with YouTube’s ongoing efforts to create a safer and more mindful digital ecosystem, complementing its existing tools like “Bedtime Reminders” and “Screen Time Stats.”
In the tech and entertainment world, platforms continue experimenting with features that promote digital wellness. Recently, HBO’s record-breaking finale also sparked online conversations about the growing role of streaming content in everyday life a trend platforms like YouTube are now learning to regulate responsibly.
As digital consumption continues to rise, YouTube’s new “Daily Viewing Limit” may represent a shift toward more mindful media habits, offering users a gentle reminder that sometimes, it’s okay to pause and take a break.
