Downloading YouTube videos directly to iPhone and iPad is not as straightforward as on other devices due to Apple’s strict app policies and YouTube’s own terms of service, which generally do not permit downloading videos for offline viewing outside their own applications. However, there are legitimate and safe methods that users can employ to save YouTube videos for offline viewing on their iOS devices, particularly using third-party apps and services that comply with regulations. Below is a comprehensive guide detailing the different methods available for downloading YouTube videos to an iPhone or iPad.
Understanding the Legality and YouTube’s Policies
Before diving into the methods, it is important to understand that YouTube’s Terms of Service explicitly prohibit downloading videos unless a download button is present through the service, such as the YouTube app with YouTube Premium. Downloading videos outside of these terms can be a violation, so always ensure compliance and use these methods responsibly for personal use only.
Method 1: Using YouTube Premium
YouTube Premium is the most straightforward and legal way to download YouTube videos on an iPhone or iPad. YouTube Premium provides an ad-free experience, allows background play, and grants the ability to download videos for offline viewing.
Steps to Download Videos Using YouTube Premium:
- Subscribe to YouTube Premium: Visit the YouTube website or app and sign up for YouTube Premium. The service requires a monthly subscription.
- Open the YouTube App: Launch the YouTube app on your iPhone or iPad and ensure you are logged in to your YouTube Premium account.
- Search for the Video: Navigate to the video you wish to download.
- Tap the Download Button: Below the video, tap on the Download button and choose the desired video quality (e.g., 720p, 1080p).
- Access the Downloaded Video: Once the download is complete, you can view the video by going to the Library or Downloads section in the app.
Method 2: Using Third-Party Apps and Tools
If subscribing to YouTube Premium is not an option, there are third-party applications and tools that can facilitate video downloading. However, Apple’s App Store policies limit the availability of such apps, so users may need to rely on web-based downloaders or use desktop tools that sync with their iOS devices.
Web-Based Downloaders and Third-Party Solutions:
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Using Safari and Online Video Downloaders:
- Open Safari and go to a trusted video downloader website such as SaveFrom.net, Y2Mate, or ClipGrab.
- Paste the YouTube video URL into the provided field and select your desired download quality and format (e.g., MP4).
- Tap the Download button and wait for the process to complete.
- Save the video to your Files app or choose Save to Photos for easier access.
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Using the Documents by Readdle App:
- Download and Install Documents by Readdle from the App Store.
- Open the app and use its built-in browser to navigate to a video downloader website.
- Paste the YouTube link and follow the prompts to download the video.
- Save the downloaded file to the app’s Downloads folder or export it to Photos for seamless viewing.
Method 3: Using Shortcuts App
Apple’s Shortcuts app can be customized to download YouTube videos with specific user-created scripts. This is more technical but can be effective.
Steps to Use the Shortcuts App:
- Install the Shortcuts App: Ensure the Shortcuts app is installed on your iPhone or iPad.
- Find a Reliable YouTube Download Shortcut: Search for a trusted YouTube download shortcut, such as the “YouTube Video & Audio Downloader” shortcut. Add it to your Shortcuts library.
- Run the Shortcut:
- Copy the URL of the YouTube video.
- Open the Shortcuts app and run the YouTube downloader shortcut.
- Follow the prompts, and the video will be downloaded to your Photos app.
Important Note: Be cautious when using third-party shortcuts as they can sometimes pose security risks or violate YouTube’s policies.
Method 4: Using a Mac or PC and Transferring the Video
For those who prefer desktop solutions, downloading YouTube videos on a Mac or PC and then transferring them to an iPhone or iPad is another viable method.
Steps for Desktop Download and Transfer:
- Download Video Using a Trusted Desktop Application:
- Applications such as 4K Video Downloader or YTD Video Downloader allow easy video downloading.
- Paste the YouTube URL into the application and choose the desired download format and quality.
- Transfer the Video to iOS Device:
- Connect your iPhone or iPad to the computer using a USB cable.
- Use iTunes or Finder (for macOS Catalina and later) to sync the downloaded video to your device.
- Alternatively, you can use AirDrop to wirelessly send the video from your Mac to your iOS device.
Tips for Smooth Downloading and Viewing
- Ensure You Have Enough Storage: High-quality videos can take up significant storage space. Before downloading, check your device’s available storage.
- Maintain Security: Use only reputable sites and tools to avoid malware or data theft.
- Backup Videos: For longer-term access, consider backing up downloaded videos to cloud services like iCloud Drive or Google Drive.
Conclusion
Downloading YouTube videos to an iPhone or iPad can be done in a variety of ways, with YouTube Premium offering the simplest and most legal solution. For those who prefer other methods, third-party apps and web-based downloaders provide alternative routes, albeit with some limitations and potential risks. Always use caution and ensure that your downloading practices align with YouTube’s policies and your local laws.