How to Download YouTube Videos on an iPhone : Unlocking Offline Entertainment: How to Download YouTube Videos on Your iPhone
When you’re blessed with a solid internet connection, streaming YouTube on your iPhone is second nature—it just works. However, there are times when going offline or conserving your data becomes a necessity. Fortunately, downloading YouTube videos on your iPhone for offline viewing or data-free enjoyment is quite feasible. Yet, not all methods are created equal.
Is Downloading YouTube Videos Legal?
The legality of downloading YouTube videos presents a nuanced scenario. If you opt to download videos via YouTube’s own service onto your iPhone, you’re in the clear—it’s fully compliant. However, straying from this sanctioned method by utilizing third-party solutions contradicts YouTube’s terms of service. The platform expressly prohibits app developers from creating YouTube downloaders for distribution on app stores.
Despite these restrictions, YouTube typically turns a blind eye to users who download videos through unofficial means. However, uploading downloaded content, particularly copyrighted material, back onto the platform may invite consequences. To err on the side of caution, reserve downloaded videos for personal use exclusively. By adhering to this guideline, you ensure compliance with YouTube’s terms while enjoying your favorite content hassle-free.
How to Download Videos Using YouTube Premium
YouTube Premium offers a convenient and official method for downloading videos directly to your iPhone. By subscribing to YouTube Premium, priced at $13.99 per month, users gain access to a host of benefits, including ad-free streaming, high-quality video playback up to 1080p, and the ability to download videos for offline viewing.
- Access the Download Button: With YouTube Premium, a “Download” button is conveniently located next to most videos on the platform.
- Save for Offline Viewing: Simply tap the “Download” button to save your favorite videos for offline viewing, allowing you to enjoy them anytime, anywhere without using your data.
Use a Shortcut
If YouTube Premium isn’t an option for you, the iPhone’s Shortcuts app provides an alternative method for downloading YouTube videos. However, it’s important to note that shortcuts can be unreliable due to frequent changes on YouTube’s end, potentially rendering them ineffective over time. Nonetheless, Sur is one shortcut that has proven to be reliable for downloading YouTube videos on iPhones.
- Install Sur: Download and install the Sur shortcut on your iPhone.
- Grant Permissions: Upon running Sur, grant the necessary permissions for it to connect to its host sites.
- Choose URL Source: Decide whether to paste a YouTube URL or pull from your clipboard.
- Initiate Download: Sur will treat the URL as a “contact” to send to the site for video download. Grant permission as required.
- Wait for Completion: The duration of the download depends on the video’s size. Once done, tap “OK” to choose what to do with the downloaded video, such as saving it to your iPhone, sending it via Messages, or sharing it through other apps.
Use a YouTube Downloader Site (with Caution)
Although it’s possible to download YouTube videos using Safari on your iPhone, it’s not the recommended method due to potential risks. While this option may work, it often involves dealing with spammy advertisements and a general sense of distrust. If you choose to explore this avenue, exercise caution and consider opting for reputable shortcuts like Sur for a safer experience.
By leveraging these methods, you can download YouTube videos on your iPhone for offline viewing or data-free enjoyment, tailoring your approach based on your preferences and circumstances.
