Question 1

How does ByeShorts work?

Accepted Answer

ByeShorts is a Safari extension that automatically detects and hides YouTube Shorts from your YouTube feed, homepage, and search results. It works locally in your browser without affecting YouTube's servers.

Question 2

Is ByeShorts really free?

Accepted Answer

Yes! The core functionality of blocking YouTube Shorts is completely free. We offer optional supporter features with advanced controls and usage statistics for users who want to support the project.

Question 3

Does ByeShorts collect my data?

Accepted Answer

No. ByeShorts operates entirely within your browser and does not collect, store, or transmit any of your personal data or browsing habits. Your privacy is completely protected.

Question 4

Will this affect my YouTube recommendations?

Accepted Answer

ByeShorts only hides Shorts from view - it doesn't interact with YouTube's recommendation algorithm. Your regular video recommendations will remain unaffected.

Question 5

Can I temporarily disable ByeShorts?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You can toggle blocking on/off directly in the app or Safari extension popup without disabling the extension itself. You can also disable it through Safari's extension settings if needed.

Question 6

Does ByeShorts work on mobile Safari?

Accepted Answer

Yes! ByeShorts works on both Safari for Mac and Safari on iOS/iPadOS devices, giving you consistent Shorts blocking across all your Apple devices.

Question 7

What are the supporter features?

Accepted Answer

Supporter features include usage statistics (how many Shorts you've blocked), custom filtering rules, scheduled blocking, and advanced developer tools. These features help support ongoing development.

Question 8

Will ByeShorts break if YouTube updates?

Accepted Answer

We actively monitor YouTube changes and update ByeShorts accordingly. The extension is designed to be resilient to minor YouTube interface changes. If you find anything broken, please contact us so we can fix it quickly.

Question 9

Can I allow Shorts from specific channels?

Accepted Answer

Yes! For supporters, when you visit youtube.com/feed/channels, the app automatically scans your subscribed channels. You can then allow Shorts from your favorite channels while blocking everything else.

Question 10

How do I uninstall ByeShorts?

Accepted Answer

You can uninstall ByeShorts through Safari's Extensions preferences, or by removing it from the App Store's Purchased section. All local data will be automatically removed.

Question 11

Advanced options toggles in Safari extension popup aren't working after updating the app. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

This is rare, but if toggles stop responding after an update:

1. Force quit and reopen the app
2. If that doesn't help, toggle the Safari extension off and back on in Safari settings
3. As a last resort: delete the app, reinstall from the App Store, and tap "Restore Purchases" to restore your supporter status

Note: Starting from version 1.0.1, the app automatically fixes most data issues on launch, so this should rarely be needed.

Frequently Asked Questions