YouTube has unveiled a range of new features for Shorts, set to launch in the coming days and weeks. The standout update is a new distraction-free viewing mode, known as Clear Screen mode, which allows videos to fill the entire screen.
By enabling Clear Screen mode, users can temporarily hide all on-screen text, buttons, and other user interface elements, creating a more immersive viewing experience.
Additionally, YouTube Shorts will offer a new 2x playback option, enabling viewers to watch videos at double speed.
To enhance user interaction, YouTube is replacing the thumbs-up button with a heart icon, fostering a more personal connection.
Furthermore, muting a video has become simpler. Users can now pause a Short by tapping the screen, followed by a tap on the new mute button to silence the audio.
Finally, the platform is eliminating the dislike button, opting instead for more constructive feedback options like "Not interested" and "Don't recommend this channel."
