Google raises YouTube app requirements to iOS 17

Google has raised the minimum system requirements for the YouTube app on Apple devices, now requiring at least iOS 17. This change prevents users of older hardware from downloading the latest versions of the application.

Specifically affected devices include the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X, as Apple no longer provides iOS 17 updates for these models. While currently installed versions of the app may continue to function for a period, these devices will no longer receive new features, bug fixes, or security enhancements.

Google may eventually disable access for older app versions via server-side blocks. Users on unsupported hardware can still access YouTube content through mobile web browsers like Safari, though this method lacks certain native app functionalities such as offline downloads and picture-in-picture mode.