We're here to help.

First off, we know this can be frustrating. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience.

Unfortunately, due to Apple's Screen Time API limitations, we can't block specific sections of websites or apps like YouTube Shorts while keeping the main site or the app accessible. The blocking works at the domain/app level, so blocking YouTube Shorts would also block the entire YouTube website/app.

Here are some alternatives you can try:

1) Use "All Day (Limited Unblocks)" for controlled access

Set up an "All Day (Limited Unblocks)" block for YouTube
Allow yourself 1-2 unblocks per day with short time limits (5-10 minutes)
Enable "Monk Mode" so you can't exceed your daily limit
This gives you intentional, limited access rather than endless scrolling

2) Block YouTube during high-temptation times

Create "Downtime" blocks during times you're most likely to get sucked into Shorts
Example: Block YouTube from, say, 7-9 PM if you tend to mindlessly scroll during those hours
Keep it accessible during times when you're more likely to use it intentionally

Why this limitation exists

Apple's Screen Time API treats each website/app as a single entity. Hence, we can't distinguish between different pages or sections of the same domain/app, which means blocking youtube.com/shorts or the app would automatically include all of youtube.com or the app.

Need more help?

Get personal help from one of our founders here. We know this can be frustrating, and we appreciate your patience. We're happy to assist—and we'll even reward you for your valuable time!