Easily Convert YouTube Shorts into Normal Videos (Mobile, PC & WordPress): YouTube Shorts use a different URL format than regular videos, which can make sharing, embedding, or watching them a bit annoying. The good news? You can easily convert any YouTube Short into a standard video with a simple trick.
Convert YouTube Shorts to Normal Videos
What's the Difference Between Shorts and Normal Videos?
YouTube Shorts use this format:
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/VIDEO_ID
Regular YouTube videos use this format:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIDEO_ID
By converting the URL, you unlock full video controls, comments, and better playback options.
Method 1: Convert YouTube Shorts URL Manually
Step by Step (Mobile & PC)
- Open the YouTube Short
- Tap or copy the URL
- Replace
/shorts/with/watch?v=
Example:
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/abc123XYZ ↓ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abc123XYZ
That’s it. The video will now load as a standard YouTube video.
Method 2: Use the Instant Converter Tool
Paste your YouTube Shorts link below and instantly convert it:
How to Convert YouTube Shorts in WordPress (Automatically)
If you run a WordPress site, you can automatically convert Shorts links into normal video URLs so embeds work correctly every time.
Step 1: Add This Code to functions.php
function auto_convert_shorts_urls($content) {
return preg_replace_callback(
'#https?://(www\.)?youtube\.com/shorts/([a-zA-Z0-9_-]+)#',
function ($matches) {
return 'https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=' . $matches[2];
},
$content
);
}
add_filter('the_content', 'auto_convert_shorts_urls');
This will automatically convert any Shorts link inside your posts into a normal YouTube video link.
Step 2: (Optional) Fix Embedded Shorts Videos
function fix_youtube_shorts_embeds($content) {
return preg_replace(
'#youtube\.com/shorts/#',
'youtube.com/watch?v=',
$content
);
}
add_filter('the_content', 'fix_youtube_shorts_embeds', 20);
This ensures embeds display correctly instead of loading as Shorts.
Why Convert YouTube Shorts?
- Access full video controls (pause, rewind, speed)
- View comments and descriptions
- Easier embedding on websites
- Better playback on desktop
Does This Work on All Devices?
Yes. This method works on:
- iPhone & Android
- Windows & Mac computers
- All modern browsers
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you turn YouTube Shorts into normal videos?
Yes. Simply replace /shorts/ in the URL with /watch?v=, and the video will load as a standard YouTube video.
Why are YouTube Shorts different?
YouTube Shorts are designed for vertical, short-form content and use a simplified player. Regular videos provide full controls and features.
Do Shorts have the same video quality?
Yes. The video file is the same. Converting the URL only changes how the video is displayed and controlled.
Will this help with embedding on WordPress?
Yes. Converting Shorts URLs ensures proper embeds using WordPress oEmbed and prevents layout issues.
Final Thoughts
YouTube Shorts may be designed for quick viewing, but converting them into normal videos gives you full control and a better viewing experience. Whether you're on mobile, desktop, or even managing a WordPress site, these simple tricks make converting YouTube Shorts into Normal Videos so much easier.