YouTube announced Thursday that Shorts now includes a 2x playback speed feature. According to TechCrunch, the Google-owned platform is overhauling the short-form service with several changes aimed at keeping viewers engaged.
The faster playback option lets users absorb information quickly or skip past content without scrolling.
YouTube is also removing the dislike button. Users can now express approval with a heart emoji, or use "Not Interested" and "Don't recommend this channel" to filter out unwanted content.
A new Clear Screen mode removes icons and text overlays, creating a distraction-free viewing experience.
YouTube says these changes create "a more intuitive Shorts experience." Rollout dates have not been specified. The features will launch gradually.
The updates reflect YouTube's push into short-form video. Shorts launched in 2024, years after TikTok and Instagram Reels. CEO Neal Mohan said YouTube Shorts reached 200 billion daily views as of June 2025, with viewers consuming 2 billion hours of Shorts content per month—including on TV screens.
