Mastering YouTube Downloads on Your iPhone or iPad
Downloading YouTube videos on iOS devices requires navigating Apple’s stringent app guidelines and security measures. Unlike Android, iOS does not easily support apps that can download YouTube videos directly due to Apple’s policies against such actions in the App Store. However, there are still legitimate and effective ways to save your favorite videos to your iPhone or iPad.
Using Document by Readdle
One of the most popular methods involves using a third-party app called ‘Documents by Readdle’. This app is not just a file manager but also allows the downloading of videos through its built-in browser.
- Download and Install Documents by Readdle: Start by downloading ‘Documents by Readdle’ from the App Store. This app is free and highly rated for its file management capabilities.
- Navigate to a YouTube Video Downloader: Open the app’s built-in browser and navigate to a web-based YouTube downloader.
- Copy the YouTube Video URL: Go to the YouTube app or website, find the video you want to download, and copy the URL.
- Paste the URL and Download: Return to the Documents browser, paste the video URL into the downloader’s search box, and press the download button. Choose your preferred format and quality, then start the download.
- Save the Video to Your Camera Roll: Once the download is complete, you can move the video file from the Downloads folder in Documents to your camera roll for easy access.
Using Shortcuts App
Another method is using the Shortcuts app, which is pre-installed on iOS devices. You can create or download a shortcut that is designed to download YouTube videos.
- Get a YouTube Download Shortcut: Search for a reliable YouTube download shortcut online from sources like Reddit or Shortcut galleries that share user-generated shortcuts.
- Add the Shortcut to Your Library: Once you find a trusted shortcut, add it to your Shortcuts app. You may need to adjust your settings to allow untrusted shortcuts if it’s your first time downloading one from outside the Gallery.
- Use the Shortcut: Open the YouTube app, find the video you wish to download, use the Share sheet, and tap on the Shortcut you added. The video will automatically download to your Photos app or Files app depending on how the shortcut was configured.
Ensuring Privacy and Security
When using third-party apps or shortcuts, it’s crucial to ensure that the sources are trustworthy as downloading content from unknown sources can pose privacy and security risks.
Legal and Copyright Considerations
Downloading videos from YouTube can also raise legal and copyright issues, especially if the content is copyrighted and you do not have permission to download it. Always be mindful of these aspects when deciding to download videos.
Conclusion
Although downloading YouTube videos directly to an iOS device is not as straightforward as it is on other platforms, with the right tools and methods, it is entirely possible and can be done efficiently. Whether you choose to use a versatile app like Documents by Readdle or take advantage of the Shortcuts app, you can enjoy your favorite videos offline on your own terms.