YouTube Vanced was a popular modified version of the YouTube app that offered premium features without requiring a subscription. However, it's important to understand its availability across different platforms.

What is YouTube Vanced?

YouTube Vanced was a third-party modified version of the official YouTube application that offered several premium features for free, such as ad-blocking, background playback, and a dark theme. It gained popularity among Android users looking for an enhanced YouTube experience without paying for YouTube Premium. The name "Vanced" itself is derived from "advanced" without the "ad," highlighting its ad-free functionality.

Is YouTube Vanced Available on iOS?

No, YouTube Vanced is not available on the App Store for iOS devices. YouTube Vanced was exclusively developed for Android devices and was distributed outside the Google Play Store through its official website and alternative app repositories. iOS users looking for Vanced YouTube functionality face significant limitations due to Apple's strict App Store policies and the closed nature of iOS.

Why Can't I Find Vanced on the App Store?

The absence of YouTube Vanced on the App Store stems from multiple factors. Apple's strict review process prohibits apps that modify or interfere with the functionality of other applications. Additionally, Vanced YouTube violates YouTube's terms of service by circumventing their premium features. These violations mean that even if developers attempted to list Vanced on the App Store, it would be rejected during Apple's review process.

The Current Status of YouTube Vanced

As of 2025, the original YouTube Vanced project has been discontinued. In early 2022, the developers announced they were shutting down the project after receiving a cease and desist letter from Google. While some users may still have the application installed on their Android devices, it no longer receives updates, potentially leading to security vulnerabilities and compatibility issues with newer YouTube features.

Alternatives for iOS Users

For iOS users seeking Vanced YouTube functionality, options are limited. The official YouTube Premium subscription remains the primary legitimate way to access ad-free viewing, background playback, and other premium features on iOS devices. Some users explore alternative methods such as using YouTube through browsers that support ad-blocking extensions, though these don't provide the same seamless experience as Vanced did on Android.

Is There a YouTube Vanced iOS Version Being Developed?

No official YouTube Vanced iOS version exists or is being developed. Due to iOS's security model and Apple's strict app distribution policies, creating and distributing a Vanced-like app for iOS would be extremely challenging. Any apps claiming to be "Vanced for iOS" should be approached with caution, as they may be scams or potentially harmful applications.

Understanding App Store Restrictions

Apple maintains strict control over what apps can be published on the App Store. Applications that modify other apps' functionality, circumvent payment systems, or violate terms of service of other platforms are consistently rejected. This walled garden approach provides security benefits but limits the availability of modified apps like YouTube Vanced on iOS devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I download YouTube Vanced from the App Store?

No, YouTube Vanced has never been available on the Apple App Store and cannot be downloaded for iOS devices through official channels.

Is using YouTube Vanced legal?

While using YouTube Vanced wasn't illegal in most jurisdictions, it did violate YouTube's terms of service by bypassing their premium features and removing advertisements.

What happened to the original YouTube Vanced?

The original YouTube Vanced project was discontinued in 2022 after receiving legal pressure from Google. The app is no longer being updated or officially supported.

Are there any official alternatives to YouTube Vanced for iOS?

The only official way to get premium YouTube features on iOS is through a YouTube Premium subscription. Third-party alternatives that mimic Vanced YouTube functionality are not available on the App Store.

Can I sideload YouTube Vanced on iOS?

Unlike Android, iOS has very limited sideloading capabilities without jailbreaking. Even with jailbreaking, there is no version of YouTube Vanced specifically developed for iOS architecture and operating system.