Your Guide to YouTube Shorts Download on iPhone & Android

YouTube Shorts are those fun, quick videos that are super easy to get hooked on — but what if you want to save them and watch later, even without the internet? We’ve collected a few ways to download Shorts, both for iPhone or Android users. 

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If you're using an iPhone, the simplest way to save a Short is through the YouTube app but you will need a YouTube Premium subscription.

1. Open the YouTube app and find the Short you want to save.

2. Tap the download icon (a little down arrow under the video).

3. Choose your video quality.

4. Done! The video will show up in the Downloads section under your Library tab.

The downloaded video stays inside the YouTube app — you won’t see it in your Photos app or any other folder.

Another Option: Use the Shortcuts App (for iOS 14 and up)

For those who've been updated with iOS 14 or later versions, there's another method via the "Shortcuts" app, which is generally pre-installed. 

1. Find a trusted YouTube download shortcut online (make sure it’s from a reliable source).

2. Add it to your Shortcuts app.

3. Open YouTube, tap Share on the Short, and select the shortcut.

4. The video gets saved straight to your iPhone gallery.

Pro Tip: If you're using Shorts to promote your brand or content, you can also buy YouTube Shorts views from platforms like Viewsta to help your videos get more attention.

Android makes things a bit more flexible — but you’ll probably need a third-party app.

1. Go to the Google Play Store and search for a “YouTube video downloader.”

2. Pick a well-rated one and install it.

3. Open YouTube, find the Short you want, and hit Share.

4. Select the downloader app from the options that pop up.

5. Choose your quality and download. The video should now be saved directly to your phone’s storage.

While third-party apps are super convenient, they do come with some risks:

• Some apps may ask for weird permissions or collect your data.
• Many free apps are loaded with ads or even malware.
• And most importantly: be respectful of copyright! Don’t re-upload someone else’s content or use it commercially without permission.

So — read app reviews, only download from trusted developers, and always double-check what permissions you're granting.

Saving YouTube Shorts for offline viewing can be super useful. Just make sure you’re not crossing any copyright lines, and stay cautious with third-party apps. No matter if you're on an iPhone or Android, you can follow these simple steps and your favorite Shorts can be saved in your phone’s memory when you need them — with or without Wi-Fi connection.

If you're looking to give your own channel a boost, Viewsta is a great place to buy YouTube likes and YouTube subscribers to help your videos reach a wider audience. To see other strategies to get more YouTube comments, follow the link to our guide here. 

Are YouTube Shorts only available on the YouTube app?

Shorts are made for the app, but you can view them on the YouTube website too, in the same scrolling format.

Can I download  YouTube Shorts using the official  YouTube app?

Yes, if you have YouTube Premium. The downloads stay inside the app though.

Is downloading YouTube Shorts through third-party apps safe?

Some are, some aren’t. Pay attention to apps with good reviews and always double-check permissions you’re granting.

What is a shortcut on iOS, and how can it help me download Shorts?

Shortcuts are little automation tools. Some let you save videos directly to your Photos app. So you don’t need YouTube Premium.

Can I  share downloaded  YouTube Shorts with others?

If you downloaded using YouTube Premium, no, they stay in the app. If you used other tools, yes, but be mindful of copyright infringements.