YouTube is a treasure trove of video content, offering everything from music and tutorials to documentaries and vlogs. While streaming videos is convenient, there are times when you might want to download them for offline viewing, especially when you’re traveling, have limited data, or simply want to enjoy your favorite content without interruptions. Downloading YouTube videos directly from the app is limited to YouTube Premium subscribers. However, several alternative methods exist to download YouTube videos to your iPhone. This comprehensive guide explores various options, providing detailed steps and instructions for each.
Understanding the Legalities
Before we dive into the methods, it’s crucial to understand the legal aspects of downloading YouTube videos. Downloading copyrighted content without permission from the copyright holder is generally illegal. YouTube’s terms of service also prohibit unauthorized downloading. Therefore, it’s essential to use these methods responsibly and only download videos for personal use or when you have explicit permission from the content creator.
Method 1: Using Third-Party Apps (Document Manager)
Several third-party apps available on the App Store can help you download YouTube videos. One popular option is using a document manager app coupled with an online video downloader. These apps offer file management capabilities and often include a built-in browser that allows you to access websites and download files. This method requires a two-step process: using the document manager to browse a YouTube downloading website, then using that website to download the video.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Download a Document Manager App: Go to the App Store and search for a document manager app. Popular choices include “Documents by Readdle”, “File Manager”, or similar apps. Download and install your preferred app. For this example, we’ll use “Documents by Readdle”.
- Open the Document Manager App: Launch the app on your iPhone.
- Access the Built-in Browser: Most document manager apps have a built-in browser, usually indicated by a compass or globe icon. Tap on the browser icon to open it.
- Navigate to a YouTube Downloader Website: In the browser, type in the URL of a reputable YouTube downloader website. Some popular options include “SaveFrom.net”, “Y2Mate.com”, or “OnlineVideoConverter.com”. Be cautious about using websites with excessive ads or pop-ups, as they may be unreliable or contain malware.
- Find the YouTube Video: Go to YouTube.com using the Documents by Readdle browser or copy the YouTube video URL from the YouTube app.
- Paste the Video URL: In the YouTube downloader website, there will be a text box where you can paste the URL of the YouTube video you want to download. Paste the URL into the box.
- Choose the Download Format and Quality: The website will typically offer different download formats (MP4, WEBM, etc.) and quality options (360p, 720p, 1080p, etc.). Select your preferred format and quality. Keep in mind that higher quality videos will have larger file sizes.
- Start the Download: Click the download button. The website might redirect you to another page or open a pop-up ad. Close these and return to the download page if necessary. The download should start automatically. If it doesn’t, look for a direct download link.
- Save the Video: The document manager app will prompt you to choose a location to save the downloaded video. Select a folder within the app where you want to store the video.
- Access the Downloaded Video: Once the download is complete, you can access the video within the document manager app. Navigate to the folder where you saved the video, and tap on it to play.
- Optional: Move to Photos App: If you wish to move the video from the Documents app to your iPhone’s Photos app, follow these steps. In Documents, long-press the video file and select “Share”. Then, choose “Save Video”. The video will now be available in your Photos app.
Pros:
- Free to use (with ads on the downloader websites).
- Doesn’t require jailbreaking your iPhone.
- Offers flexibility in choosing download formats and quality.
Cons:
- Relies on third-party websites, which may be unreliable or contain malware.
- Can be time-consuming due to ads and redirects.
- The functionality of YouTube downloader websites can change or be blocked by YouTube.
Method 2: Using Online YouTube Downloader Websites (Safari)
Similar to the previous method, you can use online YouTube downloader websites directly within Safari, your iPhone’s default web browser. This method eliminates the need for a dedicated document manager app but still relies on the functionality of these websites.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Open Safari: Launch the Safari browser on your iPhone.
- Navigate to a YouTube Downloader Website: Type in the URL of a reputable YouTube downloader website, such as “SaveFrom.net”, “Y2Mate.com”, or “OnlineVideoConverter.com”. As before, be cautious about using websites with excessive ads or pop-ups.
- Find the YouTube Video: Open a new tab in Safari and go to YouTube.com or use the official YouTube app to copy the video’s URL.
- Paste the Video URL: Paste the URL of the YouTube video you want to download into the text box on the downloader website.
- Choose the Download Format and Quality: Select your preferred download format (MP4, WEBM, etc.) and quality (360p, 720p, 1080p, etc.).
- Start the Download: Click the download button. The website may redirect you or open a pop-up ad. Close these and return to the download page if necessary.
- Save the Video: After clicking download, a preview of the video will appear. Below the video, you will usually find the option to download. Tap on “Download”. Safari will display a popup asking, “Do you want to download?”. Tap on “Download”.
- Access the Downloaded Video: To access the video, tap the download icon on Safari. It looks like a downwards arrow inside a circle, usually located at the top or bottom of the screen. The downloaded video will be listed there. Tap on the file.
- Share the Video and Save: The video will open in a new viewer window. Tap the Share button (the square with an upward arrow). From the Share Sheet, choose “Save Video”. This will save the video to your iPhone’s Photos app.
Pros:
- No need to download an additional app.
- Free to use (with ads on the downloader websites).
- Offers flexibility in choosing download formats and quality.
Cons:
- Relies on third-party websites, which may be unreliable or contain malware.
- Can be time-consuming due to ads and redirects.
- The functionality of YouTube downloader websites can change or be blocked by YouTube.
Method 3: Using YouTube Premium
The most straightforward and legitimate way to download YouTube videos for offline viewing is by subscribing to YouTube Premium. YouTube Premium offers several benefits, including ad-free viewing, background playback, and the ability to download videos directly within the YouTube app.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Subscribe to YouTube Premium: Open the YouTube app on your iPhone and tap on your profile picture in the top right corner.
- Select “Get YouTube Premium”: Choose the “Get YouTube Premium” option from the menu.
- Choose a Plan and Subscribe: Follow the on-screen instructions to choose a subscription plan and complete the payment process.
- Find the YouTube Video: Once you are a YouTube Premium subscriber, open the YouTube video you want to download.
- Tap the Download Button: Below the video player, you will see a download button (a downward-pointing arrow). Tap on this button.
- Choose the Download Quality: YouTube will prompt you to choose the download quality. Select your preferred quality. Higher quality videos will have larger file sizes.
- Access the Downloaded Video: The video will begin downloading. Once the download is complete, you can access it by tapping on the “Library” tab at the bottom of the YouTube app and then selecting “Downloads”.
Pros:
- Legitimate and safe method.
- Ad-free viewing experience.
- Direct download within the YouTube app.
- Supports content creators.
Cons:
- Requires a paid subscription.
- Downloaded videos are only accessible within the YouTube app.
- Downloaded videos may have expiration dates, requiring you to re-download them periodically.
Method 4: Using Video Downloader Apps (App Store – Check Reviews Carefully!)
While Apple is strict about apps that directly violate YouTube’s terms of service, some video downloader apps do appear on the App Store periodically. These apps often function similarly to the document manager method, but they are specifically designed for downloading videos. **However, it’s crucial to exercise extreme caution when using these apps, as many may be unreliable, contain malware, or disappear from the App Store without warning.** Always read reviews carefully before downloading any video downloader app from the App Store.
Step-by-Step Instructions (If you choose to use this method, proceed with caution):
- Search for a Video Downloader App: Go to the App Store and search for a video downloader app. Look for apps with high ratings, positive reviews, and a significant number of downloads. Avoid apps with poor reviews, excessive permissions requests, or a suspicious appearance.
- Download and Install the App: Download and install the app on your iPhone.
- Open the App: Launch the app.
- Browse to YouTube: Most of these apps have a built-in browser. Use it to navigate to YouTube.com.
- Find the Video: Find the YouTube video you want to download within the app’s browser.
- Download the Video: The app should provide a download button or prompt you to download the video when you start playing it.
- Choose the Download Quality (If Available): Some apps may allow you to choose the download quality.
- Access the Downloaded Video: The downloaded video will typically be saved within the app’s storage. Refer to the app’s instructions for accessing downloaded files.
- Move to Photos App (If Possible): Many of these apps allow you to save the video to your iPhone’s Photos app. Look for a “Save to Camera Roll” or similar option.
Pros:
- Potentially more convenient than using a document manager app and a separate website.
Cons:
- High risk of downloading unreliable or malicious apps.
- Apps may disappear from the App Store without warning.
- Functionality may be limited or unreliable.
- May violate YouTube’s terms of service.
Method 5: Screen Recording
While not technically a download method, screen recording allows you to capture the video playing on your screen. This method is useful if you cannot download a video directly due to copyright restrictions or if the other methods are not working. However, screen recording results in a lower quality video compared to direct downloads, and it captures any on-screen elements, such as notifications or controls.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Enable Screen Recording: If you haven’t already, enable screen recording in your iPhone’s Control Center. Go to Settings > Control Center and add “Screen Recording” to the included controls.
- Open the YouTube Video: Open the YouTube app or website and find the video you want to record.
- Start Screen Recording: Swipe down from the top right corner of your screen (or up from the bottom on older iPhones) to access the Control Center.
- Tap the Screen Recording Button: Tap the screen recording button (a circle inside another circle). A countdown will appear, and then the recording will begin.
- Play the Video: Immediately play the YouTube video. Ensure the video is playing in full screen to minimize distractions.
- Stop Screen Recording: Once the video has finished playing, swipe down (or up) to access the Control Center again and tap the screen recording button to stop the recording.
- Access the Recording: The screen recording will be saved to your iPhone’s Photos app.
Pros:
- Works for any video, regardless of download restrictions.
- No need for third-party apps or websites.
Cons:
- Lower video quality compared to direct downloads.
- Captures any on-screen elements.
- Requires manual start and stop, potentially missing the beginning or end of the video.
- Significant storage space may be used if recording long videos.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Downloading YouTube videos to your iPhone can sometimes encounter issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
- Download Website Not Working: If the YouTube downloader website is not working, try a different website. These websites are often targeted by YouTube and may be temporarily unavailable.
- Video Not Downloading: Ensure that the video URL is correct and that the website supports the video format you are trying to download. Also, check your internet connection.
- Downloaded Video Not Playing: Make sure you have a compatible video player installed on your iPhone. The default Photos app should play most MP4 files. If not, try a third-party video player like VLC.
- Storage Space Issues: Downloading high-quality videos can consume a significant amount of storage space on your iPhone. Check your storage space and delete unnecessary files to free up space. Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage to view and manage your storage.
- App Store Download Issues: If you are having trouble downloading an app from the App Store, check your internet connection and ensure that your Apple ID is properly configured. Restarting your iPhone can also resolve some App Store issues.
Security Considerations
When downloading YouTube videos from third-party websites or apps, it’s essential to prioritize your security. Here are some security considerations to keep in mind:
- Use Reputable Websites: Stick to well-known and trusted YouTube downloader websites. Avoid websites with excessive ads, pop-ups, or suspicious links.
- Read App Reviews: Before downloading any video downloader app from the App Store, read reviews carefully. Pay attention to warnings about malware, privacy concerns, or unreliable functionality.
- Avoid Jailbreaking: Jailbreaking your iPhone can expose it to security vulnerabilities. Avoid jailbreaking your device solely for the purpose of downloading YouTube videos.
- Use a VPN: Consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) when accessing YouTube downloader websites. A VPN can help protect your privacy and security by encrypting your internet traffic.
- Keep Your Software Updated: Ensure that your iPhone’s operating system and apps are up to date. Software updates often include security patches that protect against vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
Downloading YouTube videos to your iPhone offers a convenient way to enjoy your favorite content offline. Whether you choose to use a document manager app, an online downloader website, YouTube Premium, or screen recording, it’s important to understand the legal implications and security risks involved. By following the steps and precautions outlined in this guide, you can safely and responsibly download YouTube videos to your iPhone and enjoy them anytime, anywhere.