If the official app fails to load content (often showing a "Tap to Retry" error), users in the legacy iOS community often use tools like Sideloadly to install modified ".ipa" files (like YouTube Patcher ) that fix API compatibility.
If you successfully installed an older version of YouTube using Method 1, you might eventually open the app only to see a screen forcing you to update, preventing you from watching videos.
Since your device is capped at iOS 12.5.7, you cannot install the newest YouTube client directly. However, this does not mean you’re out of options. Below are three viable methods to install a working version of YouTube, ranging from the simplest to the most advanced.
Method 2: The Safari Web App Workaround (No Downloads Required)
If you manage to install an older version of YouTube, Google may show a persistent pop-up forcing you to update, preventing you from watching videos. You can bypass this restriction. The Safari Workaround