Using YouTube on iOS 12 has become a challenge as official support for older software phases out. As of 2026, the current YouTube app requires iOS 16.0 or later. This leaves devices like the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPad mini 2—all of which are capped at iOS 12.5.7—unable to run the latest version of the app.
: Finally addressed notification clutter by grouping alerts from the same app together on the lock screen. Siri Shortcuts Youtube-- Ios 12
A Shift to Lite Services: This era highlighted the need for "Lite" versions of apps, similar to what exists on Android, to keep older but functional hardware relevant. Conclusion: A Final Act Using YouTube on iOS 12 has become a