Can Shorts be longer than 60 seconds?

Are YouTube Shorts Getting Longer?

You might've heard a few rumors swirling around YouTube Shorts and their length. Here’s the real deal: as of now, Shorts are still capped at 60 seconds. If you’ve been hitting record on a 90-second clip hoping it’ll land as a Short, think again—anything over 60 seconds won’t qualify.

Here’s where it gets a little confusing. Back before October 15th, YouTube experimented with letting creators upload vertical videos between 60 seconds and 3 minutes. These slipped through as regular long-form videos, not Shorts. So if you see a vertical video running over a minute, it’s likely one of those legacy uploads, not a new feature.

YouTube hasn’t changed the rules. The magic of Shorts lies in their quick, punchy format—designed for fast scrolling and instant engagement. That’s why the platform still encourages creators to keep those bite-sized videos rolling. Whether it’s a quick tip, a comedy skit, or a dance trend, under 60 seconds is where the algorithm thrives.

So, can Shorts be longer than 60 seconds? Not officially. YouTube’s staying firm on the time limit to preserve the format’s unique vibe. If you’ve got a longer story to tell, it’s better suited for a regular video. But if you’re mastering the art of the quick hook and rapid payoff, stick to the 60-second rule. That’s where Shorts shine.