YouTube frequently tests new features for its Premium subscribers, and its latest trial introduces a sleep timer that automatically pauses videos after a designated period. While not a groundbreaking addition, this feature is likely to be useful for those who fall asleep listening to long podcasts or white noise.
YouTube Premium users can enable the sleep timer by going to “Settings” and then selecting “Try experimental new features” on their mobile app. Once activated, the timer option will appear in the video player’s Settings menu, letting users choose a pause duration of 10, 15, 20, 30, 45, or 60 minutes, or until the video finishes.
When the timer triggers, a pop-up will prompt users to extend the timer if needed.
YouTube is a bit behind its competitors in this area; Spotify has offered a sleep timer for some time, and TikTok began testing sleep reminders based on a set bedtime last year.
According to YouTube’s experimental feature page, the sleep timer will be available until September 2, but there is hope that it will become a permanent feature and eventually be extended to free users