How to Block Ads on the iPhone YouTube App: The Definitive Guide

Frustrated by incessant ads interrupting your favorite YouTube videos on your iPhone? You’re not alone! While Google actively discourages ad blocking, the good news is that several viable methods exist. Let’s cut to the chase and explore how you can reclaim your viewing experience.

The most effective way to block ads directly within the official iPhone YouTube app is to subscribe to YouTube Premium. This paid subscription not only removes all ads from videos but also unlocks background playback and the ability to download videos for offline viewing. However, if you prefer a free solution or a workaround, you’ll need to explore alternative strategies. These include using third-party apps, browser extensions (used within a browser, not the app itself), or even employing a VPN with ad-blocking capabilities. While not perfect, these methods can significantly reduce the frequency of ads you encounter. Let’s delve into these options in detail.

YouTube Premium: The Official Ad-Free Solution

Why YouTube Premium is the Best Option (If You’re Willing to Pay)

Without a shadow of a doubt, YouTube Premium is the gold standard for an ad-free YouTube experience. It’s Google’s official solution, seamlessly integrated into the YouTube app, ensuring complete ad removal across all videos and devices logged into your account. Besides ad blocking, Premium offers:

• Background Playback: Listen to YouTube content even when your iPhone is locked or you’re using other apps. This is a game-changer for podcasts and music.
• Offline Downloads: Download videos to your device for viewing without an internet connection. Perfect for travel or areas with poor connectivity.
• YouTube Music Premium: Access ad-free music streaming and background playback within the YouTube Music app.
• Support for Creators: Your subscription directly supports the creators you love, a welcome alternative to ad revenue.

Signing Up for YouTube Premium on Your iPhone

1. Open the YouTube app on your iPhone.
2. Tap your profile picture in the top right corner.
3. Select “Get YouTube Premium”.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose a subscription plan and complete the payment process.

Exploring Alternative Ad-Blocking Methods

While YouTube Premium provides the most comprehensive solution, it’s not the only game in town. Let’s investigate some alternative methods that can help you minimize or even eliminate ads without paying a subscription fee.

Leveraging Third-Party Browser Apps with Ad Blocking

One effective workaround involves using a third-party browser app on your iPhone that has built-in ad-blocking capabilities. These browsers are designed to filter out ads as you browse the web, including when you watch YouTube videos within the browser itself. Popular choices include:

• Brave Browser: This browser is renowned for its robust ad-blocking features and privacy focus. It automatically blocks ads and trackers, leading to a faster and cleaner browsing experience. It also offers built-in VPN services for enhanced security.
• DuckDuckGo Privacy Browser: Known for its strong privacy features, DuckDuckGo also blocks many common trackers and advertisements, offering a more streamlined YouTube viewing experience within the browser.
• AdBlock Mobile: While initially designed as a browser extension, AdBlock also offers a mobile browser app that effectively blocks ads across the web.

Important Note: These browsers only block ads within the browser app itself. They will not block ads within the official YouTube app.

Utilizing Content Blockers for Safari

If Safari is your browser of choice, you can install content blockers from the App Store to block ads and trackers across websites, including the YouTube website viewed in Safari. These apps work by filtering out unwanted content as pages load, leading to a cleaner and faster browsing experience. Popular options include:

• AdGuard: AdGuard offers a highly customizable content blocker with a wide range of filter lists, allowing you to block ads, trackers, and other unwanted elements.
• 1Blocker: 1Blocker is another powerful content blocker that allows you to create custom rules and block specific elements on websites.

Limitations: Like browser apps with ad blocking, content blockers for Safari only work within the Safari browser and won’t affect ads in the YouTube app.

VPNs with Ad-Blocking Features

Certain VPN (Virtual Private Network) services offer built-in ad-blocking capabilities. These VPNs filter out ads at the network level, potentially reducing the number of ads you see across all apps and websites on your iPhone, including the YouTube app. Look for VPNs with specific ad-blocking features, such as:

• NordVPN: Offers “Threat Protection,” which blocks ads and malware.
• Surfshark: Includes “CleanWeb,” which blocks ads, trackers, and malware.
• Private Internet Access (PIA): Offers “MACE,” a feature that blocks ads and trackers at the DNS level.

Caveats: The effectiveness of VPN ad blocking can vary, and it may not eliminate all ads. Additionally, using a VPN can impact your internet speed, so choose a reputable provider.

The Potential Downsides of Free Ad-Blocking Methods

While free ad-blocking methods can seem appealing, it’s crucial to be aware of their potential downsides:

• Reduced Support for Creators: Blocking ads means creators receive less revenue from your views.
• Potential Security Risks: Some ad-blocking apps may collect your data or compromise your privacy.
• Broken Website Functionality: Aggressive ad blocking can sometimes interfere with website functionality, causing elements to not load correctly.
• Limited Effectiveness: Free methods are often less effective than YouTube Premium, and ads may still slip through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it legal to block ads on YouTube?

Yes, it’s generally legal to block ads on YouTube for personal use. However, YouTube’s terms of service discourage ad blocking, and Google actively tries to circumvent ad blockers.

2. Can YouTube detect if I’m using an ad blocker?

Yes, YouTube can often detect when you’re using an ad blocker. When detected, YouTube might display a message asking you to disable the ad blocker or subscribe to YouTube Premium. They may also limit video playback.

3. Will using an ad blocker slow down my iPhone?

Some ad blockers can consume system resources, which may slightly impact your iPhone’s performance. However, reputable ad blockers are designed to minimize this impact. Using multiple ad blockers simultaneously can definitely affect performance.

4. What’s the difference between an ad blocker and a VPN with ad-blocking features?

An ad blocker works by filtering out ads within a specific browser or app. A VPN with ad-blocking features filters out ads at the network level, potentially blocking ads across all apps and websites on your iPhone.

5. Is YouTube Vanced available on iPhone?

No, YouTube Vanced is not available on iPhone. It was a popular modified version of the YouTube app for Android that offered ad-free playback and other features, but it has been discontinued.

6. Are there any jailbreak tweaks to block YouTube ads on iPhone?

Yes, some jailbreak tweaks can block ads on the YouTube app. However, jailbreaking your iPhone can void your warranty and expose your device to security risks. This method is not generally recommended.

7. Can I use a hosts file to block YouTube ads on my iPhone?

While technically possible, modifying the hosts file on your iPhone is a complex and potentially risky process. It requires jailbreaking your device and is not a recommended method for most users.

8. Will YouTube Premium block ads on other Google services?

No, YouTube Premium only blocks ads on YouTube and YouTube Music. It does not block ads on other Google services like Gmail or Google Search.

9. Can I share my YouTube Premium subscription with family members?

Yes, YouTube Premium offers a family plan that allows you to share your subscription with up to five family members in your household.

10. How much does YouTube Premium cost?

The cost of YouTube Premium varies depending on your region and subscription type (individual or family plan). Check the YouTube app for current pricing in your area.

11. Can I get a free trial of YouTube Premium?

Yes, YouTube often offers a free trial of YouTube Premium. Check the YouTube app for current trial offers.

12. Are there any ethical considerations when blocking ads on YouTube?

Yes, blocking ads reduces revenue for creators, potentially impacting their ability to create content. Consider supporting your favorite creators through other means, such as Patreon or merchandise purchases, if you choose to block ads.