YouTube's new feature turns off podcasts when you fall asleep
What's the story
YouTube Premium is currently testing a new feature, a sleep timer that allows users to pause videos after a set duration.
This feature is particularly useful for those who enjoy falling asleep while listening to lengthy podcasts or white noise.
The sleep timer can be activated by Premium users either from a dedicated page on the desktop version, or via the "Settings > Try experimental new features" option on mobile devices.
User guide
How to set a timer?
Once the sleep timer is activated, it becomes visible in the Settings menu on the video player.
Users can customize this timer to pause their video after intervals of 10, 15, 20, 30, 45, or even 60 minutes. Alternatively, they can choose to have it pause when the video concludes.
When YouTube halts playback due to this sleep timer, a pop-up will appear asking users if they wish to extend their timer.
Trial period
Feature is under testing until September 2
The sleep timer feature is currently in its testing phase and will be available for use until September 2.
There are expectations that YouTube might make this feature a permanent addition, and extend its availability to free users as well.
This move by YouTube is seen as an effort to keep pace with competitors like Spotify and TikTok, who have already incorporated similar features into their platforms.