Watching videos offline on your iPhone can be convenient, especially when traveling, saving mobile data, or enjoying content without interruptions. If you’re wondering how to download YouTube videos on an iPhone, this guide will walk you through the safest and easiest ways to do it, legally and efficiently.
Important Note Before Downloading
YouTube’s official terms of service prohibit downloading videos directly from the platform unless using YouTube’s own offline features. To stay safe and legal, we’ll focus on official methods and trusted apps.
Method 1: Using YouTube Premium for Offline Videos
The easiest and safest way to download YouTube videos on an iPhone is through YouTube Premium.
Steps:
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Open the YouTube app on your iPhone.
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Sign in to your YouTube Premium account.
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Find the video you want to download.
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Tap the Download button (downward arrow) below the video.
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Choose the video quality (Low, Medium, or High).
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The video will appear in your Library → Downloads section for offline viewing.
Why This Method Is Recommended:
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Safe and legal
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High-quality downloads
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Access to videos even without internet
Method 2: Using the Files App and Shortcuts App (iOS 13 and Later)
If you want to download YouTube videos without a subscription, you can use Apple’s Shortcuts app. This method requires a trusted shortcut script to save videos to your iPhone’s Files app.
Steps:
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Open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone.
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Tap the Gallery tab and search for a YouTube downloader shortcut (like “YouTube Ripper”).
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Add the shortcut to your library.
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Open the YouTube app and copy the video link.
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Go back to Shortcuts and run the downloader shortcut.
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Choose Save to Files or Camera Roll.
Important: Only use trusted shortcuts to avoid malware or privacy risks.
Method 3: Using Third-Party Apps (App Store Compatible)
Some apps on the App Store allow you to save YouTube videos for offline playback within the app.
Steps:
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Search for apps like Documents by Readdle or Video Downloader Super.
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Open the app and use its built-in browser to navigate to YouTube.
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Copy the video URL and paste it in the app’s download field.
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Choose video quality and download.
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Access your downloaded videos inside the app.
Note: These videos usually stay in the app due to iOS restrictions.
Method 4: Using YouTube’s “Save Offline” Feature (Limited Availability)
YouTube also allows some videos to be saved offline without Premium, depending on your region.
Steps:
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Open YouTube app.
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Navigate to the video.
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Tap Download if available.
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The video will save in Library → Downloads.
Not all videos are available for this feature; it depends on copyright and creator settings.
Tips for Downloading YouTube Videos Safely
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Always use official YouTube methods or trusted apps.
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Avoid shady websites that ask for personal information.
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Check video quality before downloading to save storage space.
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Keep your iOS updated for security.
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Remember: downloaded videos are for personal use only.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I download YouTube videos to Camera Roll?
Yes, with Shortcuts or some third-party apps. YouTube Premium downloads stay within the app.
2. Do downloaded videos expire?
Yes, YouTube Premium offline videos may expire after 30 days or if the device isn’t connected online for verification.
3. Is it legal to download YouTube videos?
Downloading for personal use via YouTube Premium is legal. Using other methods may violate YouTube’s terms.
4. Can I download playlists?
Yes, YouTube Premium allows playlist downloads. Third-party apps may have limitations.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to download YouTube videos on an iPhone allows you to watch your favorite content offline without worrying about internet connectivity. The safest method is YouTube Premium, but Shortcuts and trusted third-party apps offer alternatives for advanced users. Always prioritize legal and secure ways to protect your device and data.