YouTube Shorts get clean mode, x2 playback speed, new heart icon & dislike button removal

Google has delivered a round of updates to YouTube Shorts, introducing a cleaner and more intuitive interface. The rollout’s most visible addition is a Clear Screen mode that temporarily hides all icons and overlays, providing uninterrupted, distraction-free video viewing. Building on playback enhancements, Shorts now let users double the playback speed to get through content faster, useful for quickly finding key moments or absorbing information.

For users seeking more precise control, the update introduces streamlined mute functionality: pausing a Short by tapping, then tapping the mute icon to silence the audio. In addition, users can set a timer for Shorts playback, including the option to set it at zero for blocking them entirely.

Accompanying these visual and playback enhancements are significant changes to engagement controls. The traditional thumbs-up button has been replaced with a ❤️ icon, giving a different way to express appreciation. Meanwhile, the dislike button has been retired entirely. Instead, viewers now have access to “Not interested” and “Don't recommend this channel” options, allowing more accurate tuning of recommended content.

These new options collectively offer Shorts viewers enhanced customization and feed control.