Hey everyone, are you as annoyed by YouTube Shorts as I am sometimes? Constantly getting interrupted while trying to watch a long-form video? If you're on iOS and looking for a way to block YouTube Shorts, then you're in the right place! I'll walk you through everything you need to know, covering different methods, and tips to regain control over your viewing experience. Let's dive in and make your YouTube feed work for you.

Why Block YouTube Shorts? Let's Talk About It!

So, why would you want to block YouTube Shorts in the first place, right? Well, for many of us, the endless scroll of Shorts can be a real time-suck. You start with good intentions, wanting to watch a specific video, and suddenly you're 30 minutes deep into a stream of bite-sized content. It's like a digital black hole!

• Focus and Productivity: First off, it's about staying focused. If you're using YouTube for work, research, or even just to unwind with a longer video, Shorts can be a major distraction. Blocking them helps you stay on track and be more productive. I can't even count how many times I was about to work, and then got trapped in the shorts videos. Anyone felt the same way?
• Content Preference: Some people simply aren't fans of the short-form video format. Maybe you prefer the depth and detail of longer videos. Or perhaps you find the constant change of pace and content overwhelming. Whatever the reason, blocking Shorts allows you to curate a YouTube experience that aligns with your content preferences.
• Improved User Experience: Let's face it, getting bombarded with content you're not interested in can be frustrating. Blocking Shorts means you see more of what you want to see, making your time on YouTube more enjoyable. Think of it as a way to customize your feed for a better user experience. I think that's the best way to explain this.

This guide will provide you with the information you need to stop YouTube Shorts from popping up on your iOS device.

Method 1: Using Third-Party Apps or Extensions

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. The most straightforward approach to blocking YouTube Shorts on iOS is often through the use of third-party apps or browser extensions. While iOS has some limitations compared to Android when it comes to customization, there are still some great options out there that can help you reclaim your YouTube feed. Let me provide some popular options:

• Browser Extensions (Limited): The first option that comes to mind are browser extensions. You'll need a browser that supports them. Chrome and Firefox on iOS support extensions to a degree, but the options are often more limited than on a desktop. The key here is to look for extensions specifically designed to block Shorts or filter content. Search the app store with "YouTube Ad Blocker" or "YouTube Enhancer". Install and follow the instructions. Remember to always download extensions from reputable sources and review the permissions they require.
• Ad Blockers: Many ad-blocking apps also have content-filtering capabilities. These apps are primarily designed to block ads, but many of them include features that allow you to block specific types of content, including YouTube Shorts. I'd recommend that you look into the app settings, because sometimes these options are hidden. Again, check out the app store. Read reviews to find what is best for you.
• Customization: After installing your preferred app, you'll generally need to do some customization. This might involve selecting "block shorts" as an option or adding filters to hide content. Don't be afraid to experiment with the settings to find what works best for you. Also, if a setting doesn't work out, don't worry, just keep trying!

Important Considerations:

• App Permissions: Always review the permissions an app requests before installing it. Make sure you understand what the app will have access to. If you are not sure, don't install it.
• Updates: Keep your apps updated to ensure they are working properly and to benefit from any new features or bug fixes.
• Compatibility: Some apps may not be fully compatible with the latest version of iOS. Check the app description or reviews to make sure it's up to date.

Method 2: YouTube's Native Options and Workarounds

While blocking YouTube Shorts isn't a direct feature within the native YouTube app on iOS, there are still some smart tricks and workarounds you can use to minimize your exposure. Let's see how you can apply these steps!

• Use the "Not Interested" Button: This is the easiest, yet perhaps the most overlooked method. When a Short appears in your feed, tap the three dots next to the video and select "Not interested." This tells YouTube that you are not interested in that type of content, and it should reduce the frequency of similar content in your feed over time. This is not perfect, but it's effective if you do it consistently.
• Filter Your Recommendations: After marking several shorts as "Not interested," YouTube should begin to learn your preferences and recommend fewer of them. This is an ongoing process, but it can significantly improve your feed over time. The trick is to be consistent with marking unwanted content.
• Curate Your Subscriptions: Subscribe to channels that primarily produce long-form content. This will increase the likelihood of seeing more of the content you actually want to watch and reduce the presence of shorts. This is also not perfect, as YouTube will suggest more content based on what you view, but it's a good starting point.
• Create Playlists (Long-Form Content): Organize your favorite long-form videos into playlists. This ensures that you'll have easy access to the content you want to watch and reduces the temptation to browse through Shorts. That is great to spend some time to watch interesting topics, isn't it?

Limitations:

• Not a Complete Block: These native options won't completely eliminate Shorts from your feed, but they can significantly reduce their presence over time.
• Manual Effort: This method requires consistent use of the "Not interested" option and active curation of your subscriptions and playlists.

Method 3: Focus on Content Curation and Building Better Habits

Beyond technical solutions, one of the most effective strategies for reducing your exposure to YouTube Shorts is to build better viewing habits and focus on content curation. This is all about taking control of your viewing experience. It may seem like a basic strategy, but it is one of the most efficient strategies.

• Define Your Viewing Goals: Before opening YouTube, decide what you want to watch. This simple step can prevent you from mindlessly scrolling through Shorts. If you're looking for tutorials, type the title into the search bar. If you're looking for the news, search for a news channel. This way you'll be more goal-oriented, and less likely to fall into the rabbit hole of shorts. Do not get in there!
• Limit Your YouTube Time: Set time limits for yourself. Use the "Screen Time" feature on your iPhone to monitor and limit your YouTube usage. This can help you stay disciplined and avoid overconsumption of any type of content. Take breaks, and give your eyes a rest! This feature also keeps you focused.
• Unsubscribe from Overwhelming Channels: If you're subscribed to channels that produce a lot of Shorts, consider unsubscribing or muting them. Focus on channels that provide the content you genuinely enjoy. It's about quality over quantity! Remember, you have the control to manage your content.
• Embrace Alternative Platforms: If you find yourself consistently frustrated with YouTube Shorts, explore alternative video platforms that better suit your content preferences. This could include platforms that focus on long-form content or specialize in specific niches. You'd be surprised to know what content is out there! Expand your horizon.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Let's go over some common issues when trying to block YouTube Shorts on iOS, and how to fix them.

• App Not Working: If a third-party app isn't working as expected, make sure it's updated to the latest version. Check the app's settings and ensure that the Shorts-blocking feature is enabled. Try restarting the app or your device. If the problem persists, reach out to the app's support team for assistance.
• Feed Still Showing Shorts: Even with the best efforts, YouTube's algorithms can sometimes still show Shorts. Continue using the "Not interested" option to help train the algorithm. Also, double-check that your content filter settings are correctly configured.
• Updates Affecting Blocking: YouTube and iOS updates can sometimes break the functionality of third-party apps or extensions. Keep an eye on the app's release notes and updates to see if there are any known compatibility issues. You might need to wait for the developer to release an update. That is, unfortunately, common to happen.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Let's answer some frequently asked questions about blocking YouTube Shorts on iOS.

• Does YouTube offer a built-in feature to block Shorts? Unfortunately, no, the native YouTube app on iOS does not have a direct feature to block Shorts. However, the workarounds and third-party options provide effective alternatives.
• Are third-party apps safe to use? Generally, yes, but you need to do your research. Download apps from trusted sources, read reviews, and carefully review the permissions the app requests. Always keep your apps updated.
• Will blocking Shorts affect my YouTube recommendations? Yes, it can, but in a good way. By consistently telling YouTube what you don't want to see (using "Not interested") and by subscribing to channels with the content you like, your recommendations should improve over time.
• Can I block Shorts on all my devices? The methods described here are primarily focused on iOS devices. If you use YouTube on other devices, you'll need to find appropriate solutions for each platform (e.g., Android, web browsers).

Conclusion: Reclaiming Your YouTube Experience

And there you have it, folks! Now you know the best ways to block YouTube Shorts on iOS and get back to enjoying your favorite content without the endless distractions. Remember to experiment with the different methods, find what works best for you, and be patient. Whether you choose to use third-party apps, utilize YouTube's native features, or build better viewing habits, you have the power to curate a more enjoyable and productive YouTube experience. Keep learning, keep experimenting, and most importantly, enjoy the content you love! I hope this article helped, and let me know if you have any questions in the comments below! Have fun blocking shorts!