YouTube Now Requires iOS 16 or Newer
Google has just released a new update for the YouTube app on iOS , and it brings some unwelcome news for users of older iPhone models. With version 20.22.1 , now live on the App Store, the app will only work on devices running iOS 16 or later — a jump from the previous requirement of iOS 15 .
This change means that several once-popular iPhone models are now no longer compatible with the latest version of the YouTube app.
❌ Which iPhones Are No Longer Supported?
If your iPhone can’t upgrade to iOS 16 , you won’t be able to install or update to the newest version of the YouTube app. The affected devices include:
- iPhone 6S / 6S Plus
- iPhone 7 / 7 Plus
- First-generation iPhone SE
- 7th-generation iPod touch
Also impacted are older iPad models such as:
- iPad Air 2
- iPad mini 4
While these devices may still run older versions of the app, they’ll miss out on future updates, bug fixes, and performance improvements.
⚠️ What Happens If You Can’t Update?
Users with unsupported devices have a few options:
- Continue using an older version : The existing app will still function, but without new features or security updates.
- Use the mobile web version : Accessing YouTube through Safari is still possible, though it lacks many of the features found in the updated native app.
- Upgrade your device : This might be the best long-term solution, especially if other apps start dropping support too.
Eventually, even the older versions of the app may stop working entirely as YouTube servers evolve and drop backward compatibility.
🔁 Why Is YouTube Dropping Support?
Google isn’t alone in this move. Many services are tightening their system requirements to focus on more modern hardware and software environments. Recently, WhatsApp also dropped support for iPhones unable to run iOS 15.1 or newer .
By focusing on newer operating systems, developers can:
- Improve performance
- Use advanced APIs
- Enhance security
- Reduce development and testing costs
While it’s tough news for those clinging to older devices, it’s a natural part of the tech lifecycle.
🕰️ A Decade of Support — It Was a Good Run
It’s worth noting that devices like the iPhone 6S series were launched nearly a decade ago — an impressive lifespan by any standard. Apple’s commitment to supporting older devices has always been one of its strongest selling points, especially when compared to many Android manufacturers.
Still, technology moves forward, and at some point, even the most durable gadgets must be replaced.
💬 Final Thoughts
For users still holding onto older iPhones, this change is a clear sign that it might be time to consider upgrading. While it’s frustrating to lose access to popular apps, staying on outdated platforms eventually leads to isolation from the digital ecosystem.
So maybe it’s finally time for that friend who still uses an iPhone 7 to ditch his “vintage” device and step into the modern era.
