How to Download YouTube Videos on Your Phone

Why use a browser instead of a separate app

Third-party "download YouTube" APKs often ask for unnecessary permissions, are packed with ads, or stop working after an app update. The browser-based saved.video isn't installed on your phone at all: you open the site, paste the link, and save the file the same way as any other download in Chrome or Safari.

The limits are the same as on desktop: public videos only, a list of qualities (often up to 1080p), and no standalone MP3. Shorts work through the same link; there's a separate guide for short vertical videos.

Android: Chrome and other browsers

1. Copy the link - In the YouTube app: tap "Share" → "Copy link". Or open the video in Chrome and copy the address bar.
2. Paste it into saved.video - Open the site in your browser, go to the YouTube tool, and paste the link.
3. Save the file - Pick a quality. The file usually lands in "Downloads". Open it via "Files" or your gallery if the format is supported.

iPhone and iPad (Safari / Chrome)

iOS doesn't have a "Downloads folder" like Android, but the browser can save files straight into the Files app. The process is the same: copy the link → saved.video → pick a quality → save.

1. Copy the link from YouTube - Tap "Share" → "Copy link".
2. Open saved.video in Safari or Chrome - Paste the link and wait for the quality options.
3. Save it to "Files" - After the download finishes, the system will offer to open or save it. Choose "Files" - handy for saving to iCloud Drive or "On My iPhone".

Quality and mobile data

• On LTE/3G, pick 360p-720p - faster and lighter on data
• On Wi-Fi you can pick the highest quality available
• Shorts are usually short - even 1080p won't weigh much

Full guide: how to download from YouTube. Shorts: download Shorts.

Common issues on mobile

• You pasted a channel or search link - you need the URL of a specific video
• The browser is blocking downloads - allow them for saved.video
• The file "downloaded" but won't open - open it via "Files" / VLC
• The quality you want isn't listed - pick the closest one available