Troubleshooting YouTube Links Not Launching the YouTube App on iPhone

Key Notes

  • Clear browser data on Safari or Google Chrome.
  • Ensure the YouTube app is updated to the latest version.
  • Check iPhone settings for default apps.

Resolving Issues with YouTube Links Not Opening in the YouTube App on iPhone

If external links are failing to open in the YouTube app on your iPhone, you are not alone. This guide offers practical solutions to tackle this common issue, ensuring YouTube links launch correctly in the app rather than redirecting to an external browser. Discover why this happens and the steps you can take to resolve it.

When you click on a YouTube link, it is supposed to direct you to the YouTube app automatically. If it fails, this may be due to settings in your device’s default browser or potential issues in the app itself.

Fix 1 – Clear Browser Data

Your default browser settings may be causing these links to open incorrectly. Here’s how to clear browser data for both Safari and Google Chrome.

Steps for Safari Users:

Step 1: Access iPhone Settings

Tap the “⚙” icon to open the Settings app.

Step 2: Go to Apps

Scroll down and tap on the “Apps” section to continue.

Step 3: Open Safari Settings

Select “Safari” from the list to adjust its settings.

Step 4: Clear History and Website Data

Scroll down and select “Clear History and Website Data” for clearing unnecessary data.

Step 5: Set Time Range

Choose “All Time” to remove all browsing history completely.

Pro Tip: If you’re okay with closing open tabs, enable the “Close Tabs” option.

Step 6: Finalize Clearing Data

Finally, tap “Clear Browsing Data” to complete the process.

After clearing Safari data, recheck the links to see if they now open in the app.

Steps for Google Chrome Users:

Step 1: Open Google Chrome

Access the Google Chrome browser from your iPhone.

Step 2: Tap Three-Dot Menu

Tap the small three-dot icon in the browser’s upper corner.

Step 3: Clear Browsing Data

Select the “Clear Browsing Data” option from the menu.

Step 4: Set Time Range to All Time

Ensure the “Time Range” is set to “All Time” to clear everything.

Step 5: Confirm Clearing Data

Press “Clear Browsing Data” to wipe Chrome’s history.

Following these steps, YouTube links should redirect perfectly to the app.

Fix 2 – Update the YouTube App

Running an outdated version of the YouTube app can also impact how links function. Here’s how to ensure yours is up to date:

Step 1: Go to the App Store

Launch the App Store on your device.

Step 2: Search for YouTube

Type “YouTube” into the search bar to find the app.

Step 3: Check for Updates

Tap on the YouTube app in the results; if an update is available, press the “Update” button.

Once updated, click a YouTube link to check if it opens in the app correctly.

Summary

In summary, resolving the issue of YouTube links not opening in the app can typically be remedied by clearing your browser’s data and ensuring the YouTube app is updated. Following the steps outlined above should lead to a more seamless experience when accessing YouTube content through your iPhone.

Conclusion

If you frequently encounter issues with YouTube links not launching in the app, applying these fixes should enhance your overall viewing experience. Regularly updating your apps and managing your settings will help prevent this from occurring in the future.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Why do YouTube links sometimes open in a browser instead of the app?

This issue often arises from settings in your default browser or outdated versions of the YouTube app. Adjusting your browser settings or updating the app typically resolves the problem.

What should I do if clearing browser data doesn’t work?

If clearing browser data does not solve the issue, consider resetting your iPhone settings or reinstalling the YouTube app as a last resort.