The YouTube application no longer works on these Android smartphones, which are still widely used

The YouTube app has suddenly stopped working on many Android smartphones. For the past few days, users of older models have been stuck with no easy solution. A decision by Google that rekindles the debate around the lifespan of devices that are still widely used.

Over the years, some applications stop working on older phones. This phenomenon, already observed on other services, is now affecting YouTube. On Android, users have been reporting errors for several days that completely block access to the platform. Clearing data or reinstalling the application is no longer enough. Even modified versions are no longer able to bypass the block.

This change stems from a decision made by Google in March 2025. The company ended compatibility of the YouTube app with Android 7.1.2 and earlier versions. Only smartphones running Android 8.0 or newer can still use the app. According to Google, this measure is intended to improve security, performance, and ensure that the latest features work properly.

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Popular smartphones like the Redmi Note 4 or the Mi 5 can no longer access the YouTube app

Many models that are still widely used are affected. These include several Xiaomi devices such as the Mi 5, the Redmi Note 4, and the Redmi Y1. On these smartphones, the YouTube app now displays an error message or asks to use the mobile site instead. Some users see a message saying "Problem with server [400]" or can no longer log in to their Google account. Even modified versions like YouTube ReVanced no longer work properly on these older systems.

For those affected, the alternatives are limited. It is possible to use YouTube from a mobile web browser at m.youtube.com, but this solution is less fluid than the native application. The only real alternative remains to change your device to a more recent model. This decision by Google therefore revives criticism of software obsolescence, as some users see it as an indirect way of encouraging them to upgrade their smartphone.