YouTube Adds Clear Screen Mode, Heart Button, and 2x Speed to Shorts

YouTube announced in June 2026 that it is adding several new features to Shorts, bringing the platform closer in line with TikTok’s existing functionality. The changes were detailed in a blog post published on Thursday.

The updates include a “clear screen” mode that removes icons and text overlaid on videos while watching, a replacement of the “thumbs-up” button with a heart icon, and a new 2x playback speed option. YouTube is also removing the “dislike” button from Shorts entirely, directing users who want to give negative feedback to use the “Not interested” and “Don’t recommend this channel” options found in the three-dots menu.

To use the speed feature, viewers can hold down the edge of the screen to accelerate playback, then lift their finger to return to normal speed. Locking playback at 2x is done by pressing the player and swiping down. A separate mute option is also available by tapping the video and selecting the mute button.

Each of these features mirrors functionality that TikTok has offered for some time. TikTok’s similarly named “clear mode” removes captions, icons, and usernames from the screen. The platform also supports video speed adjustment and uses a heart button for likes.

The changes suggest YouTube is continuing to align Shorts’ user experience with TikTok’s, potentially to attract or retain users familiar with TikTok’s interface. For current Shorts users, the updates may offer a cleaner viewing experience and more playback control, while the removal of the dislike button shifts how viewer dissatisfaction is expressed on the platform.