Why did YouTube remove the dislike button in Shorts?

The platform replaced it with subtler tools like 'Not interested' and 'Don’t recommend this channel' to reduce negative impact on creators and foster a more positive environment.

How does the 'Clean View' mode work in Shorts?

This mode temporarily hides all interface elements (icons, text), leaving only the video visible to help viewers focus entirely on the content.

How many views do Shorts generate daily?

According to YouTube, Shorts recorded 200 billion daily views in June 2025, though a 'view' is counted after the first frame is displayed.

← All news

Business

YouTube Shorts Adds Playback Speed and New Features

June 26, 2026

Photo: TechCrunch

Quick answer

YouTube has enhanced Shorts with double-speed playback, removed the dislike button, and introduced a 'Clean View' mode to reduce interface distractions and improve engagement.

YouTube is rolling out several updates to its Shorts format to enhance user convenience. The most notable change is the ability to double playback speed, allowing viewers to consume content faster or quickly locate key moments without losing comprehension.

In an effort to reduce negativity, the platform is also removing the dislike button. Users can now express dissatisfaction only through 'Not interested' or 'Don’t recommend this channel' options. The traditional like button (thumbs up) will be replaced by a heart icon—a more expressive way to show approval.

Another new feature is the 'Clean View' mode, which temporarily hides all interface elements (icons, text) during playback. This helps viewers focus solely on the video without distractions. YouTube has not specified exact rollout timelines but noted that updates will roll out gradually.

Despite launching later than TikTok and Instagram Reels in 2020, Shorts has quickly gained popularity. According to CEO Neal Mohan, Shorts reached 200 billion daily views by June 2025, including partial video views. The format is also seeing significant growth on smart TVs, with over 2 billion hours watched monthly.

* Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and other Meta services are owned by Meta Platforms Inc., an organization recognized as extremist and banned in the Russian Federation.

Common questions

Why did YouTube remove the dislike button in Shorts?: The platform replaced it with subtler tools like 'Not interested' and 'Don’t recommend this channel' to reduce negative impact on creators and foster a more positive environment.
How does the 'Clean View' mode work in Shorts?: This mode temporarily hides all interface elements (icons, text), leaving only the video visible to help viewers focus entirely on the content.
How many views do Shorts generate daily?: According to YouTube, Shorts recorded 200 billion daily views in June 2025, though a 'view' is counted after the first frame is displayed.

Dzen feed: /feed/dzen.xml · RSS: /feed.xml