The current version of the YouTube app requires iOS 14.0 or later
You do not need to throw away your perfectly functional device. There are several safe, reliable workarounds to get YouTube running smoothly on iOS 12.5.7. This comprehensive guide covers every method from easiest to most advanced. Method 1: The "Purchased" Section Trick (Easiest)
On iOS 12.5.7, the older YouTube app build feels .
Key points to cover
If the app continues to show an "Update Required" error or won't download, using a mobile browser is the most reliable way to watch videos without errors. : Go to m.youtube.com. Install Youtube Ios 12.5.7
| Feature | Status on iOS 12.5.7 | | :--- | :--- | | | ✅ Works | | Subscribing to channels | ✅ Works | | Searching | ✅ Works | | Signing into Google account | ✅ Likely works (may require a one-time web login) | | YouTube Shorts | ⚠️ May not work or appear differently | | Live chat / Comments | ✅ Basic functionality likely works | | Creating / Uploading | ❌ Not supported | | Picture-in-Picture (PiP) | ❌ Not supported (iOS limitation) | | 4K video playback | ❌ Not supported (hardware/software limitation) |
Go to settings on that newer device and (the one used on your iOS 12.5.7 device).
A native-looking YouTube icon will now appear on your home screen. This method uses significantly less battery and RAM than the native app, which keeps older processors running cool. Method 3: Use Alternative YouTube Clients
Once you find YouTube in the list, tap the next to it. The current version of the YouTube app requires iOS 14
Running an iPhone 5s or 6? Here is how to install YouTube on iOS 12.5.7
If you have previously downloaded YouTube using your Apple ID on any device, Apple allows you to download the "last compatible version" for iOS 12.5.7. Open the App Store on your iOS 12.5.7 device.
Change the version numbers listed there (which might say something like 15.xx.x ) to a modern version of YouTube, such as 19.01.1 .
: Save the file and restart your device. This often tricks YouTube's servers into thinking you are using a modern version. Hardware Compatibility Max iOS Version Recommendation iPhone 5s / 6 / 6 Plus Use Safari Shortcut iPad Air / Mini 2 / Mini 3 Use Safari Shortcut iPod Touch (6th Gen) Use Safari Shortcut Method 1: The "Purchased" Section Trick (Easiest) On
While this installs the app, many users find it immediately displays an "Update Required" pop-up that blocks all usage. Method 3: Jailbreak Fixes (Advanced)
Method 2: Create a Safari Web App (Zero Storage Alternative)
If the older official app crashes or runs slowly, creating a home screen shortcut for the YouTube mobile website is the most stable alternative. It behaves exactly like a native app, takes up almost zero storage, and always features the latest site updates. Open the Safari browser on your device. Navigate to youtube.com .