How to Watch Age-Restricted Videos on YouTube Mobile (iPhone & Android)

Frustrated by not being able to watch certain videos on your YouTube mobile app because of age restrictions? You’re not alone! YouTube implements these restrictions to ensure a safe viewing experience for all users. However, if you’re of age and still encountering this block, there are simple steps you can take to resolve it. This guide will walk you through how to watch age-restricted videos on your iPhone, iPad, or Android device.

Understanding YouTube’s Age Restrictions

YouTube uses age restrictions to limit access to content that may not be suitable for all audiences. This can include videos with mature themes, violence, or other sensitive content. When a video is age-restricted, you’ll typically see a warning message and won’t be able to play it unless you’re signed in to an account that has been verified as being above a certain age.

Method 1: Disabling Restricted Mode in the YouTube App

The first and easiest step is to check if Restricted Mode is enabled in your YouTube app settings. This feature, when turned on, hides potentially mature videos. Here’s how to disable it:

For iPhone and iPad:

1. Open the YouTube app.
2. Tap on your profile icon (usually your picture or a generic avatar) located at the top right of the screen.
3. Scroll down and tap on Settings.
4. Tap on General.
5. Look for Restricted Mode. If the toggle switch next to it is on (usually blue or a different color), tap it to turn it off (grey or white).

For Android:

1. Open the YouTube app.
2. Tap on your profile icon (usually your picture or a generic avatar) located at the top right of the screen.
3. Tap on Settings.
4. Tap on General.
5. Find Restricted Mode. If it’s turned on, toggle it off.

After turning off Restricted Mode, try watching the age-restricted video again. If it still doesn’t play, proceed to the next method.

Method 2: Verifying and Updating Your Age in Your Google Account

If disabling Restricted Mode doesn’t work, the issue might be with the age associated with your Google account. YouTube uses this information to determine if you meet the age requirements to view restricted content. Here’s how to check and update your birthday:

1. Open the YouTube app.
2. Tap on your profile icon (top right for Android, bottom right for iPhone/iPad).
3. Tap on Google Account (it might be directly under your channel name). This will open your Google Account settings.
4. Navigate to the Personal info tab (it might be labeled differently depending on your device).
5. Scroll down and tap on Birthday.
6. Review your current birthday. If the year is incorrect and indicates you are underage, tap on it to edit.
7. Enter your correct birth date.
8. Tap Save.

Important Note: Google may require you to verify your age after updating your birthday. This might involve providing a copy of your driver’s license, passport, or other valid government-issued ID. Follow the on-screen instructions provided by Google if verification is required.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Sign in: Ensure you are signed in to your Google account within the YouTube app. Age verification is tied to your account.
• Restart the app: After making changes to your settings or Google account, close and reopen the YouTube app.
• Clear cache and data (Android): If you’re still having issues on an Android device, try clearing the YouTube app’s cache and data in your phone’s settings (Settings > Apps > YouTube > Storage > Clear cache/Clear data). You will need to sign back into the app afterward.
• Check for updates: Make sure your YouTube app is updated to the latest version from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).

Conclusion

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the issue and enjoy age-restricted videos on your YouTube mobile device. If you continue to experience problems, double-check your Google account’s age settings and ensure you have completed any required age verification processes.