YouTube, the widely used video-streaming app, has quietly ended support for several older Apple devices by updating its iOS app to version 20.22.1, which now requires iOS 16 or later to run.
As a result, iPhone models that cannot be upgraded beyond iOS 15—such as the iPhone 6s, 6s Plus, 7, 7 Plus, and the first-generation iPhone SE—can no longer run the app.
The update, released on 2nd of June also affects the iPod Touch 7th generation, iPad Air 2, and iPad mini 4, leaving users of these devices without access to the app.
While the official update description highlights “bug fixes, performance improvements, and more cat videos,” the change in system requirements was noted in the fine print.
Many users expressed frustration on social media, with some lamenting the obsolescence of their older devices and others questioning the need for such restrictions.
Some users offered a workaround—suggesting watching YouTube via Safari or other browsers as an alternative to using the app.
To continue using the YouTube app, users must ensure their device is running iOS 16 or higher, which may involve updating their iPhone or iPad software if supported.
To check your iOS version, go to Settings > General > About. To update, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update and follow the prompts.
Users are also encouraged to enable automatic updates for continued access to the latest features and security enhancements.
This move by YouTube reflects a broader trend of phasing out support for legacy devices as apps evolve with newer technologies.
