How to download YouTube videos on iPhone — legally and safely

You’ve probably found a video on YouTube that you’d love to save to your iPhone and watch offline — or even keep in your gallery. But how can you do that without breaking any rules?

In this guide, we’ll explain how to download videos from YouTube to your iPhone, using official methods like YouTube Premium, plus some legal workarounds that let you save content for offline viewing or in your Camera Roll.

🔄 Summary

• Can you download YouTube videos to iPhone?
  
• Method 1: YouTube Premium (official way)
  
• Method 2: Save videos to gallery with Shortcuts or third-party tools
  
• Are video downloader apps safe?
  
• FAQ
  

Can you download YouTube videos to iPhone?

Yes — but with limits. YouTube’s terms of service don’t allow downloading videos unless you’re using YouTube Premium. This is the safest and most legal option.

Downloading videos using third-party apps or websites may violate these terms, and can sometimes carry risks (ads, malware or copyright issues).

If you’re downloading videos for personal use (e.g. offline viewing), we’ll show you the safest options below.

Method 1: YouTube Premium (best and legal way)

YouTube Premium allows you to officially download videos for offline viewing inside the YouTube app.

1. Open the YouTube app
   
2. Find the video you want
   
3. Tap the Download button below the video
   
4. Choose the quality and wait for it to finish
   

Access your video offline in the Library > Downloads section
Note: These videos stay in the YouTube app and can’t be moved to your Camera Roll or shared outside the app.

Method 2: Save videos to gallery (Camera Roll)

If you want to save a YouTube video directly into your iPhone’s gallery, you can try this method — but only for personal use and when the video is copyright-free or belongs to you.

Option 1: Using the Shortcuts app

1. Open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone
   
2. Search for a trusted shortcut like “YouTube Video Downloader”
   
3. Install it from a reputable site (e.g. RoutineHub)
   
4. Copy the YouTube video link
   
5. Run the shortcut — it will ask where to save the file
   
6. Choose to save it to Photos (your gallery)
   

Note: Apple may block some shortcuts in future iOS updates.

Option 2: Via third-party web tools (at your own risk)

 There are websites like SaveFrom or Y2Mate that allow you to paste a video link and download the file. Be cautious:

• Never enter personal data
  
• Avoid sites with aggressive ads
  
• Always respect copyright
  

 After downloading, use the Files app to move the video to your Photos.

Are video downloader apps safe?

Most apps on the App Store that offer YouTube downloads are either misleading or not allowed. Apple often removes apps that violate YouTube’s terms.

If an app seems too good to be true, it probably is. Stick to trusted methods, especially when using a refurbished device where you want stability and safety.

FAQ ❓

📥 Can I download YouTube videos on my iPhone?
Yes, using YouTube Premium or Shortcuts, depending on the method and video rights.

📲 How do I save YouTube videos to my iPhone gallery?
Use a trusted Shortcut or web tool, then save the file to your Photos app.

❌ Is it legal to download YouTube videos?
Only through YouTube Premium or with permission for personal use. Avoid copyrighted content.

📦 Are video downloader apps on the App Store safe?
Most are limited or unofficial. Use caution and check reviews before installing.

♻️ Can I download videos on a refurbished iPhone?
Yes. Refurbished iPhones work the same as new ones for downloading, saving and media apps.