So, go ahead. Try to find that old YouTube IPA for your iPad. Hit the forums. Ask for a link. You’ll likely come up empty—but the search itself is a lovely little trip down memory lane.
Nostalgia in 4:3: Why I’m Still Searching for an Old Version of YouTube for My iPad
However, in 2012, with the release of iOS 6, Apple removed the native YouTube app. The official reason was that their licensing deal with Google had expired, but industry insiders pointed to the escalating rivalry between the two tech giants.
RetroTech Tom | April 14, 2026
If you're looking to use an older version of YouTube on your iPad, there are a few things to consider:
Sign in to your Apple ID on a newer device (like a modern iPhone) and download the current YouTube app there first.
Older versions often featured a cleaner, less cluttered interface without the distractions of modern "Shorts" or heavy animations.