I’m assuming you mean installing YouTube on an iPhone running iOS 12.5.7 (the latest iOS 12 long-term update). Apple devices that old (iPhone 5s, 6, iPad Air 1, etc.) can’t run current App Store versions of many apps; here’s a step‑by‑step guide to get YouTube working or as close as possible.
Apple legacy devices like the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPad Air, iPad mini 2, and iPad mini 3 are permanently locked out of iOS 13 and newer operating systems. Because the official YouTube app now requires much newer software, getting it to work on iOS 12.5.7 requires specific, exclusive workarounds. Method 1: The Purchase History Trick (No Computer Required)
on the newer device, search for YouTube, and download it . This links the app license to your Apple cloud account. Go back to your iOS 12.5.7 device and open the App Store.
Download or Microsoft Edge from the App Store (using the "Purchased" trick mentioned in step 1 if necessary). install youtube ios 1257 exclusive
Open Filza and navigate to the following folder: /var/containers/Bundle/Application/ Find the folder and open YouTube.app .
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For a visual walkthrough on how to force the App Store to offer an older, compatible version: How To Install Apps On iPhone 6 Technomentary YouTube• May 11, 2025 I’m assuming you mean installing YouTube on an
For those dealing with the 'Update Required' error on an already installed app:
You can use tools like AltStore or Sideloadly on a desktop computer to manually install modified YouTube .ipa files (such as YouTube Reborn or older app versions) directly to your device over a lightning cable. This bypasses the App Store entirely but requires you to refresh the app signature every seven days using a free Apple developer account. Jailbreaking
This article explores the background of this challenge and provides a complete guide to the different methods for making YouTube work on these older devices. Because the official YouTube app now requires much
Go to Settings > Safari and tap Clear History and Website Data weekly to free up system memory.
Notes: This only works if YouTube (or the Google app that included YouTube functionality) was previously purchased/downloaded with that Apple ID or Google/YouTube had a legacy compatible build still available in App Store.
Method 3: Fix "Update Required" Errors via Jailbreak (Advanced Users)
Sign into that newer device’s App Store using the exact same Apple ID that you use on your iOS 12.5.7 device.