If the standard app doesn't work, you can "sideload" modified YouTube IPA files. These often include fixes for older iOS versions or added features like ad-blocking. :

If you cannot use the App Store, you can sideload a modified IPA file. These often include fixes for login and playback issues common on older firmware. Recommended IPAs YouTube Legacy

Downloading decrypted IPAs exists in a legal gray area. If you own an iOS device and previously had YouTube installed, courts have generally considered sideloading a legacy backup as fair use. However, distributing copyrighted IPAs is illegal. This article is for educational purposes only.

For users looking for "enhanced" features (like ad-blocking) or if the official app version no longer connects to YouTube servers, you can sideload custom IPAs.

Here’s a complete blog post tailored to the keyword — written for users still on older devices like the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, or iPad mini 2/3.

Installing an IPA file (sideloading) requires a computer and specific tools.