YouTube is testing a new sleep timer feature for its mobile app and desktop platforms, a long-awaited tool that will automatically stop video playback after a set period of time. This feature is currently available exclusively to YouTube Premium subscribers, but there is hope that it will eventually roll out to all users.

The Need for a YouTube Sleep Timer

If you've ever found yourself lost in a YouTube binge late at night, only to wake up hours later with a stream of auto-played videos cluttering your watch history, then you're not alone. The lack of a sleep timer on YouTube has been a common frustration for users who accidentally fall asleep while watching videos. This can disrupt recommendations, inflate watch history with unwanted content, and potentially disturb others in the vicinity during the late hours.

Understanding this widespread issue, YouTube is now experimenting with a sleep timer feature aimed at addressing these concerns, according to 9to5Google. The feature is currently being tested with Premium subscribers and is available on both the mobile app and desktop platforms until Sept. 2.

How to Access and Use YouTube's Sleep Timer

For those interested in taking advantage of this feature during its testing phase, here's a step-by-step guide to accessing and using the YouTube sleep timer:

If you're a YouTube Premium subscriber, you can enable the sleep timer by visiting the experimental features page on your desktop or by navigating to "Settings > Try experimental new features" on the mobile app, according to TechCrunch.

Once enabled, the Sleep Timer option will appear in the settings menu of the video player. You can choose from a variety of timer lengths, including 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes, 45 minutes, 60 minutes, or until the video ends.

As the timer counts down, YouTube will automatically pause the video playback when it reaches zero. A pop-up notification will appear, allowing you to extend the timer if you wish to continue watching or listening.

Will the Sleep Timer Become a Permanent Feature?

Currently, this feature is only available for testing until Sept. 2 and it's exclusive to YouTube Premium subscribers. However, given the positive response from users, there is growing anticipation that YouTube will make the sleep timer a permanent feature. There is also speculation that the platform might eventually extend this feature to non-premium users, making it accessible to everyone.

The Future of YouTube's Viewing Experience

The introduction of a sleep timer could significantly enhance the YouTube viewing experience, particularly for those who enjoy watching videos before bed. It's a simple yet powerful tool that can help users maintain control over their watch habits, improve their sleep quality, and avoid unwanted disruptions.

Users are hopeful that it will soon become a standard offering across all platforms. Until then, Premium subscribers can enjoy the convenience and peace of mind that comes with this new sleep timer option.

Back in June, the video-viewing platform introduced the "Hype" feature to improve the content visibility of small creators. This program was launched in select regions including Turkey, Brazil, and Taiwan.