YouTube Introduces an Isolation Filter: How to Remove Shorts from Search

A New Era of Video Search: YouTube Changes the Rules

YouTube has rolled out a major update to its search system, signaling a shift toward more conscious and user-controlled content discovery. The key innovation is a new filter that allows users to instantly exclude short-form videos (YouTube Shorts) from search results.

This update responds to a growing demand for long-form and educational content. According to internal analytics and industry research, over 70% of users searching on YouTube are looking for specific answers, guides, or in-depth explanations, while Shorts are primarily designed for passive consumption. At the same time, Shorts now account for more than 25% of total watch time on the platform, which has significantly changed how search results look and feel.

How the New Filter Works

The updated filter menu now includes a dedicated option that removes Shorts from search results with a single click. Once activated, users see only standard-length videos, making it easier to find tutorials, reviews, lectures, and analytical content.

This feature is especially valuable for professionals, students, and creators who rely on YouTube as a search engine rather than an entertainment feed. Studies show that users spend up to 40% more time watching long-form videos when search results are not mixed with short clips.

What Else Has Changed in Search

Alongside the Shorts filter, YouTube has rebranded and refined several search options:

• “Sort By” has been renamed to “Prioritize”

• “View Count” is now labeled “Popularity”

• Algorithms now factor in watch time and interaction depth, not just raw views

Additionally, YouTube removed two lesser-used options: searching for videos uploaded within the last hour and sorting by rating. According to platform data, fewer than 3% of users actively used these features.

Expert Insight

These changes highlight YouTube’s strategic move toward personalization and intent-based search. By giving users more control, the platform improves satisfaction and retention. For creators, this also means higher-quality content has a better chance of being discovered and watched longer.