YouTube App Bug Opens Directly to Shorts for Some Users
Key Highlights
- A bug in the YouTube app is causing it to automatically open to the Shorts tab for some users, regardless of their previous activity.
- This issue occurs on various Android devices, including the Nothing Phone (3a) and Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
- The bug seems to be triggered by opening the Shorts tab at least once.
- Temporary fixes include clearing the app's storage and cache or uninstalling updates.
The Problem
Several users have reported that the YouTube app defaults to the Shorts tab upon opening, even if they last viewed content on a different tab. This behavior persists even after closing and restarting the app. The issue appears to be linked to the increased emphasis YouTube has placed on Shorts, with its dedicated tab and integration into other feeds. For more on YouTube's focus on Shorts, see YouTube's commitment to music and Premium upgrades.
Temporary Solutions
While a permanent fix from YouTube is awaited, users can temporarily resolve the issue by clearing the app's storage and cache or uninstalling updates via the Play Store. However, the problem returns once the Shorts tab is accessed again. This issue seems to only affect Android devices, with no reports of similar problems on iOS. For related Android updates, check out Android 16 Beta 3's multitasking enhancements.
Impact and User Experience
This bug disrupts the user experience by forcing users to navigate back to the desired tab. It highlights the challenges of integrating new features like Shorts into existing app structures. While Google works on a fix, users can explore alternative video platforms. See ChatGPT as a default assistant on Android for more tech-related news.