If you’ve been relying on YouTube Vanced to enjoy ad-free videos and disable Shorts on your Android device, you might have noticed that it’s no longer functioning as expected. Whether you’re tired of the constant workarounds or concerned about the risks associated with unofficial apps, you might be searching for a better solution. Enter WallHabit—a powerful app that helps you not just block annoying content, but also reclaim control over your screen time.
WallHabit is more than just an alternative to YouTube Vanced. It’s a commitment device that offers unique features to help you reduce your time spent on your phone. Unlike YouTube Vanced, which primarily focused on removing ads and tweaking the YouTube experience, WallHabit is designed to help you build better habits by introducing friction into your app usage. In this blog post, we’ll explore why WallHabit is the best alternative to YouTube Vanced, particularly for those who want to disable Shorts and regain control over their screen time.
YouTube Vanced Not Working to Disable Shorts
For many users, the primary reason for using YouTube Vanced was the ability to disable Shorts—YouTube’s answer to TikTok’s short-form video content. While Shorts might be fun and engaging for some, they’re often just another way to lose track of time. Unfortunately, YouTube Vanced is no longer reliable for this purpose. With updates becoming infrequent and issues piling up, many users are finding that Vanced simply doesn’t work as well as it used to.
The rapid evolution of YouTube’s platform has made it difficult for third-party apps like YouTube Vanced to keep up. As a result, users are left dealing with annoying updates that re-enable Shorts or facing the possibility of the app not functioning at all. This has led to a frustrating experience, especially for those who were using the app specifically to avoid the distraction of Shorts.
Risks of Using YouTube Vanced
While YouTube Vanced was a popular choice for many users looking to improve their YouTube experience, it’s important to consider the risks associated with using such third-party apps. Since Vanced is not an official app from Google, it doesn’t receive support or security updates. This opens the door to potential security vulnerabilities that could put your personal data at risk. Additionally, using third-party apps that modify other services can lead to account bans, especially if the app violates the terms of service of the original platform.
Another significant risk is the fact that YouTube Vanced is no longer actively maintained. This means that any bugs, security holes, or compatibility issues with newer versions of Android may never be fixed. If you’re concerned about the safety and longevity of your device and accounts, it’s worth considering a switch to a safer, officially supported app.
YouTube Vanced Alternative for Android
Given the decline of YouTube Vanced, it’s time to explore alternatives that offer a safer, more reliable experience. WallHabit is an Android app available on the Play Store that serves as an excellent replacement. Unlike YouTube Vanced, WallHabit is designed not just to block unwanted content, but to help you manage your screen time and build healthier digital habits.
WallHabit goes beyond the basic functionality of blocking ads and disabling Shorts. It introduces a series of “walls” that create barriers to excessive app usage. For example, you can block entire apps behind a virtual wall, requiring you to “hold to unlock” them. This simple act of introducing friction into the process of opening an app can significantly reduce impulsive usage and help you become more mindful of your screen time.
WallHabit on Play Store
WallHabit is available directly on the Google Play Store, making it a safe and convenient option for Android users. Being on the Play Store means it has been vetted by Google for security and compliance, which should give you peace of mind compared to the uncertainty of using third-party apps like YouTube Vanced. Installing WallHabit is easy, and its user-friendly interface makes it simple to set up and start using right away.
One of the standout features of WallHabit is its ability to block Shorts and Reels across various apps. By putting these distracting video features behind a wall, WallHabit helps you resist the urge to scroll mindlessly. This feature alone makes it a worthy alternative to YouTube Vanced, especially for those who find themselves frequently lost in the endless stream of short-form content.
Disable Shorts
Disabling Shorts and other similar features is straightforward with WallHabit. Once you’ve installed the app, you can set up specific walls to block Shorts on YouTube and similar short-form content on other platforms. This is particularly useful if you’re looking to reduce the time you spend on your phone, as these quick videos are designed to be highly engaging and addictive.
With WallHabit, you’re not just disabling Shorts—you’re taking a proactive step towards better digital habits. The app’s “hold to unlock” feature requires you to hold down a button for a few seconds before you can access the app or feature you’re trying to use. This extra step forces you to pause and think about whether you really want to engage with that content, rather than simply scrolling out of habit.
Conclusion
YouTube Vanced had its day as the go-to solution for those looking to disable Shorts and improve their YouTube experience. However, with its declining functionality and increasing risks, it’s time to consider a better alternative. WallHabit offers a comprehensive solution that not only blocks unwanted content but also helps you manage your screen time more effectively.
By introducing small barriers to app usage, WallHabit encourages you to be more intentional with your time. Whether it’s the “hold to unlock” feature or the ability to block Shorts and Reels, WallHabit empowers you to take control of your digital habits. As you look to move away from YouTube Vanced, WallHabit stands out as the best alternative for Android users who want to build healthier relationships with their devices.
