How to Download YouTube Videos to Your Phone [iOS/Android]

How to Download YouTube Videos to Your Phone [iOS/Android]

2025/01/15

Craving uninterrupted YouTube binge sessions? Downloading your favorite videos straight to your phone is the ultimate hack! This guide breaks down the easiest and most reliable methods for YouTube video download to phone, comparing options like YouTube Premium while introducing free tools for unlimited access. Whether you're on iOS or Android, we’ve got you covered. Let’s jump in and find your perfect fit!

youtube video download to phone

1. Can You Download YouTube Videos in Mobile Gallery with Premium?

If you already have YouTube Premium, you'll have access to the official download feature of the platform. It does come with a catch—the downloaded content stays locked within the YouTube app and is not found as regular files within your phone gallery. Also, you can't download private videos from YouTube even if you become a member. While perfect for casual use, it is somewhat limited.

youtube premium

Pros

  • Official and Secure: No third-party apps or risk of malware.
  • Convenience: Integrated directly into the YouTube app.
  • High Quality: Download videos in HD without losing resolution.
  • Ad-Free Experience: Enjoy streaming and downloads without interruptions.

Cons

  • Limited Access: Videos are restricted to the YouTube app and can’t be shared or edited.
  • Subscription Cost: Requires a monthly fee, which may not be ideal for occasional use.
  • No File Formats: You can’t choose specific file formats like MP4.
  • Dependent on YouTube: Downloads expire if your subscription ends or if the video is removed.

For better flexibility and control, consider exploring the following alternatives that allow you to download YouTube videos without Premium!


2. How to Download YouTube Videos to iPhone?

1 Use iRocket Fildown iOS

iRocket Fildown iOS is a user-friendly tool to download YouTube videos to iPhone. It supports multiple formats like MP4, ensuring high-quality offline viewing. The process is simple: paste the video link, choose your preferred format, and download it instantly. The app ensures a seamless experience with fast and reliable downloads. Enjoy offline videos anytime, anywhere, in just a few clicks!

iRocket Fildown
YouTube Video Downloader for Phone—Fildown

1217425 Users Downloaded

How to Download a YouTube Video on iPhone with iRocket Fildown

Step 1 Download and Install Fildown

Search for "Fildown" (also known as Downhub) in the App Store and install it on your iPhone. The installation is quick and straightforward, requiring just a few taps.

download and install fildown

Step 2 Copy the Video Link

Open YouTube and find the video you would like to download. Tap on the "Share" button and then select "Copy Link" to copy the video link to your clipboard.

copy the youtube video link

Step 3 Paste the Link in Fildown

Open the Fildown app, go to the "URL to Video" section, and paste the copied link. Select your desired video quality from the options available, then tap "Download" to initiate the process.

paste thelink in fildown

Step 4 Complete the Download

Wait for the download to complete. Once it is done, the video will be saved directly to your iPhone for offline viewing. Enjoy your video anytime, anywhere!


Pros

  • User-Friendly Interface: Easy to navigate for beginners.
  • It supports multiple formats, such as downloading videos in MP4, MP3, and more.
  • Wide Compatibility: Works across iPhone models and iOS versions.
  • Fast Downloads: Optimized for quick video processing.

Cons

  • Internet Dependency: Requires a stable connection to download.
  • Subscription Required: You’ll need a subscription to access advanced features like AI video editing.

Try It Free Go Premium


2 Use Apple Shortcuts

Apple’s Shortcuts app provides an easy and creative way to save YouTube videos directly to your iPhone. This method involves installing a custom shortcut that works seamlessly with the YouTube app.

Steps to Use Apple Shortcuts to Save YouTube Videos to iPhone

Step 1 Install the Shortcut

Download and install the YouTube Shorts Downloader shortcut on your iPhone. Despite its name, it works for downloading both YouTube Shorts and regular videos.

Step 2 Open the Video in the YouTube App

Launch the YouTube app and select the video you want to download.

Step 3 Share the Video

Tap the Share button below the video, then select the More (three dots) option from the menu.

download video on ios with shortcut

Step 4 Select the Shortcut

Scroll through the options and choose YouTube Shorts Downloader from the list.

Step 5 Grant Permissions

The Shortcut will ask for necessary permissions. Tap Allow Once or Allow Always to proceed.

Step 6 Choose Video Resolution

Pick your desired resolution, up to 720p, and start the download.

choose video resolution in shortcut

Step 7 Complete the Download

Once the download finishes, tap Exit. The video will now be available in your iPhone’s Photos app.

download and exit shortcut

Pros

  • No Additional Apps: Uses Apple’s built-in ecosystem.
  • Direct Integration: Saves videos directly to your gallery.
  • Customizable: Modify shortcuts for personalized functionality.
  • No Costs: Completely free to use.
  • Offline Access: No internet required after the initial download.

Cons

  • Risk of Unverified Shortcuts: Only use shortcuts from trusted sources.
  • Initial Setup Required: It takes time to configure for first-time users.
  • Limited to iOS Devices: Not available for Android users.
  • Occasional Updates Needed: Shortcuts may stop working with YouTube updates.

3. How to Download YouTube Videos on Android?

1 Use iRocket Fildown Android

For Android users, iRocket Fildown Android provides a similar experience to its iOS counterpart. This YouTube video downloader for android simplifies the download process, allowing you to save videos in various formats and resolutions.

youtube video downloader android fildown

Steps to Download YouTube Videos to Android with Fildown

Step 1 Install iRocket Fildown Android

Begin by downloading and installing the iRocket Fildown app on your Android device.

Step 2 Access YouTube and Locate the Video

Open the app, log in to your YouTube account, and navigate to your View History to find the video you want to download.

access youtube and locate the video

Step 3 Start the Download

Select the video, tap the Download button, and the process will begin immediately.

start the download

Step 4 Finish the Download

In just a few minutes, the video will be successfully downloaded to your device. Enjoy offline viewing anytime!

Pros

  • Supports High Resolution: Download videos in 1080p or higher for excellent quality.
  • Fast Processing: Enjoy minimal waiting time for quick downloads.
  • Wide Format Options: Choose from popular formats like MP4, MP3, and more.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Simple and intuitive design makes it easy to use for everyone.
  • Offline Accessibility: Watch your favorite videos anytime without an internet connection.

Cons

  • Need Stable Internet: For a smooth downloading experience, you must have a good data connection.

Try It Free Go Premium

2 Use NewPipe

NewPipe is an open-source YouTube client for Android that offers advanced features, including video downloads. It is one of the most reliable YouTube video downloaders for android. Below are the steps to download YouTube videos on a phone.

use newpipe to download youtube video to android

Steps to use NewPipe to Download YouTube Videos to Android

Step 1 Download the NewPipe APK from the official website.

Step 2 Open the app and search for your desired video.

Step 3 Tap the Download button, select your resolution, and save the video.


Pros

  • Audio Extraction: Save videos as audio files if needed.
  • Customizable Interface: Tailor settings to your preferences.
  • Open Source: Regular updates from the developer community.
  • Offline Playback: Videos are saved directly to your device storage.

Cons

  • Not on Play Store: Requires manual APK installation.
  • Compatibility Issues: May not work on all Android versions.
  • No Official Support: Being unofficial, it may break with updates.
  • Data Security Risks: Open-source apps may have vulnerabilities.
  • Complex Installation: Not beginner-friendly.

4. FAQs About Downloading YouTube Videos

1. Is it legal to download YouTube videos?

YouTube video download to phone without permission violates the platform’s terms of service. However, using tools like YouTube Premium or downloading royalty-free videos is generally allowed.

2. Why can’t I find my downloaded YouTube Premium videos in the gallery?

YouTube Premium saves videos within the app itself and doesn’t store them as traditional MP4 files in your phone’s gallery.

3. What’s the best free tool to download YouTube videos?

For iOS users, the iRocket Fildown is a great free option. For Android, it also stands out for its features and ease of use.

5. Final Thoughts

YouTube video download to phone ensures you can enjoy your favorite content anytime, anywhere even without internet access. iRocket Fildown is the ultimate tool for downloading YouTube videos directly to your phone. Whether you're using iOS or Android, iRocket Fildown offers unmatched simplicity, high-quality downloads, and support for multiple formats—all without the need for a subscription.

locspoof icon

YouTube Video Downloader iRocket Fildown

With iRocket Fildown, you can effortlessly save high-quality YouTube videos in MP3 or MP4 format to your phone with just one click!

Try It Free

Article by

Aria Voight twitter

Aria Voight, a seasoned tech journalist and editor at iRocket, leverages a decade of experience to demystify complex technology for everyday users. Constantly exploring new gadgets and staying ahead of trends, Aria combines deep industry insights with a passion for innovation. Her commitment to delivering impactful content has earned her a reputation as a trusted and influential voice in the tech world.

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