The core issue stems from changes in YouTube's Application Programming Interface (API) and modern security protocols. Modern versions of the YouTube app require iOS 14 or later to function. When an older app built for iOS 9 tries to communicate with modern YouTube servers, the servers reject the outdated requests, rendering the app useless.
Apple devices running iOS 9.3.5 are built on a 32-bit architecture. The official App Store serves modern 64-bit application packages requiring much newer firmware.
Method 3: Using Third-Party Legacy Clients (Recommended Alternative)
Find com.google.ios.youtube.plist and edit it to change the app version number to a higher one (e.g., 15.00.0 ). Alternative Method: Using Safari youtube ipa for ios 935
Locate the keys CFBundleShortVersionString and CFBundleVersion .
Jailbreaking allows you to use tweaks that bypass "Update Required" errors or restore functionality to broken legacy apps.
: Standard Safari can struggle with modern web scripts. Consider using ALook Browser or Dolphin Browser which are still available for older iOS versions and may offer better video compatibility. Legacy Support Summary App Store IPA Jailbreak (TubeRepair) Safari Shortcut Ease of Setup Low (Requires Phoenix) Functionality Low (Often errors out) High (Restores playback) Medium (Web UI only) Latest Version Custom patched N/A (Web-based) The core issue stems from changes in YouTube's
Installed from Cydia to allow unsigned IPA installation.
Change the values of both strings from their original numbers (e.g., 12.11.6 ) to a modern, supported YouTube version string, such as 17.05.5 or 18.01.2 . Save the changes in the top right corner of Filza and exit.
The easiest way to install custom .ipa files. Apple devices running iOS 9
Even if you already had the app installed before it dropped support, you might see the dreaded "Loading error, tap to retry" message. This occurs because the older YouTube client can no longer communicate with Google's modern servers.
AltStore is another tool similar to Cydia Impactor.
The biggest hurdle with is Google’s aggressive deprecation. By 2024, Google will likely block API access for YouTube 13.x.
The demand for running modern apps on legacy iOS devices remains high among retro-tech enthusiasts. Apple devices stuck on iOS 9.3.5, such as the iPad 2, iPad 3, iPad Mini 1, and iPhone 4S, frequently encounter compatibility issues with standard App Store applications. The official YouTube app no longer supports this operating system version, leading users to seek alternative installation methods through IPA files.
Change their values to a more recent version, such as or 15.10 . Save the file and restart the YouTube app. 3. Modern Alternatives: TubeRepair and uYou+