Installing the official YouTube app on iOS 12.5.7 (the final update for devices like the iPhone 5s, 6, and 6 Plus) is challenging because Google no longer officially supports this version of iOS. However, you can still access YouTube using the following methods. 1. Download the "Last Compatible Version"
- Performance: Newer YouTube versions (1500+) are heavily optimized for iOS 16/17. On an iPhone 6s or 7, they stutter. Version 1257 runs buttery smooth.
- Ad-Blocker Compatibility: Many system-wide ad blockers (like AdGuard Pro or NextDNS) work more effectively with version 1257 because its ad serving architecture is older and less aggressive.
- No Shorts Overload: YouTube Shorts existed in 1257, but they were not shoved into every corner of the UI. The "Shorts" shelf is less intrusive.
- Picture-in-Picture (PiP) Glitches Fixed: Later versions broke PiP for non-premium users in some regions. Version 1257 has predictable, working PiP behavior.
Return to your iOS 12.5.7 device, go to App Store > Purchased, and follow the steps in Method 1 to download the older version.
- Steps: