In this article, we will show you how to download YouTube videos on iPhone. This allows you to save your favorite videos and watch them offline.

How to download YouTube clips – While YouTube itself offers an official way to do this through YouTube Premium, there are also some third-party approaches out there.

In this article, I’ll walk you through:

1. The official method of saving YouTube videos (via YouTube Premium).
2. A quick look at third-party options (with pros and cons).
3. Some important considerations (because no one wants to break rules or risk device security).

Read Also: 6 Steps to Block Channels on YouTube

How to download YouTube videos on iPhone

How to download clips from YouTube – Discover quick and safe ways to download YouTube videos on iPhone. Explore official YouTube Premium and trusted third-party options for seamless offline viewing.

1. The Easiest (and Official) Way: YouTube Premium

The simplest way—without juggling other apps or websites—is YouTube Premium. With Premium, you can download videos straight from the YouTube app for offline viewing. Here’s how:

1. Subscribe to YouTube Premium

   • Open the YouTube app on your iPhone.
   • Tap on your profile picture (top-right corner).
   • Select Get YouTube Premium and follow the subscription prompts.

2. Find the video you want to download

   • Open the YouTube app again if you left it.
   • Search or browse for the video you want to save.

3. Download the video

   • Right beneath the video player, you’ll see a Download button (a downward arrow).
   • Tap it, and pick the video quality (higher quality takes more storage space).

4. View offline

   • Once downloaded, go to Library → Downloads in the YouTube app. Your saved videos are there!

Why choose YouTube Premium?

• It’s legit and won’t violate YouTube’s Terms of Service.
• No ads during videos.
• Higher-quality downloads and background play.

Downsides?

• It’s a paid subscription, which might not be ideal if you just want to save a video occasionally.

Read Also: How to Turn on Comments on YouTube

2. Third-Party Apps and Websites (Important Considerations)

Now, you might have stumbled across various free YouTube video Downloader apps for iPhone.” Many of these tools either don’t work as advertised, get removed from the App Store, or can pose a security risk. Some also violate YouTube’s Terms of Service.

Before we talk about any third-party approach, it’s important to note:

• YouTube’s TOS typically prohibits downloading videos unless there’s a download button or link provided by YouTube.
• Many third-party apps can expose your device to malware or intrusive ads.
• Apple is pretty strict, so most of these “video downloader” apps do not stay on the App Store for long.

That said, here’s what you need to keep in mind if you decide to explore third-party options:

1. Check App Store policies: Look for reputable apps, read user reviews, and ensure they regularly update.
2. Consider Shortcuts: Apple’s built-in Shortcuts app sometimes offers user-created shortcuts that can save or share YouTube content. However, many of these shortcuts get disabled when they break Apple’s rules or risk user privacy.
3. Be cautious with websites: If you’re thinking of using a Safari-based site that lets you paste a YouTube link to convert and download, be extra wary. You might encounter:
   • Sketchy pop-ups.
   • Invasive ads.
   • Potential phishing links.

In a nutshell: Use at your own risk—and remember there are copyright and TOS guidelines out there.

3. Using the Screen Recording Feature (A Gray Area)

Another workaround some people consider is using the iPhone’s built-in screen recording feature. While it may seem simple, it’s also a gray area:

1. Go to Settings → Control Center → Customize Controls, and add Screen Recording to your Control Center if not already there.
2. Open the YouTube video you want, start playing it.
3. Pull up your Control Center (swipe from the top-right corner on newer iPhones), and tap the Record button.
4. Stop recording when you’re done.

Why is it a gray area?

• It might violate YouTube’s TOS, and you could be recording copyrighted material.
• The video quality won’t be as good as an official download.
• You won’t get the audio if the app or the content is protected by DRM (Digital Rights Management).

Because of these factors, screen recording isn’t the ideal or entirely legitimate way to “download” a YouTube video.

Read Also: 2 Methods to see dislikes on YouTube

Pro Tips for Safe Offline Viewing

1. Stick to official methods: YouTube Premium is the safest option. It’s straightforward, reliable, and supports creators financially.
2. Check the video’s license: Some videos (like Creative Commons licensed content) allow downloading or reuse. If you have permission from the content owner, you can proceed more confidently.
3. Mind your storage: Videos can take up a lot of space on your iPhone. Keep an eye on your storage to avoid “Cannot Download” errors.
4. Use Wi-Fi when downloading: Videos can be large files, so download over Wi-Fi to save mobile data.
5. Update your iOS: Make sure your iPhone is running the latest iOS version. This ensures better security and compatibility with apps.

5. FAQs

Q: Can I watch downloaded videos forever using YouTube Premium?
A: Generally, you can keep the videos as long as your Premium subscription is active. However, some content might expire after 30 days, and you need to reconnect to the internet to “renew” the license.

Q: Is it legal to download YouTube videos with third-party apps?
A: Downloading videos without the uploader’s permission can infringe on copyright or violate YouTube’s Terms of Service. If you’re unsure, check the video’s license or ask the content creator.

Q: Do free third-party apps actually work on iPhone?
A: Some might work temporarily, but they often get removed or break due to updates. Many are also filled with ads or risky scripts.

Final Thoughts

Downloading YouTube videos on your iPhone isn’t as cut-and-dry as it sounds. The official route (YouTube Premium) is the most reliable, straightforward, and TOS-friendly method. While there are third-party avenues, they come with potential pitfalls—from malware to legal issues.

If your goal is to support content creators while enjoying seamless offline viewing, going with YouTube Premium is a solid choice. If you decide to explore other methods, do so responsibly, check permissions and copyrights, and always prioritize your device’s security.

Have fun watching—and stay safe! If you have any questions or tips of your own, feel free to share them. Happy offline viewing!

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