Download YouTube Videos or Extract MP3s on IPhone Using A-Shell and Yt-dlp

If you want to download YouTube videos or extract MP3 audio directly to your iPhone, you can do so using the free a-Shell app and the open-source yt-dlp tool. This method works without jailbreaking and provides flexibility similar to a desktop terminal.

Tips

1. Use only for personal, fair-use downloads.
2. Some videos may be restricted due to region or age limitations.
3. Keep yt-dlp updated by re-downloading it from GitHub occasionally.

Sources:

1. a-Shell: https://apps.apple.com/app/id1473805438
2. yt-dlp: https://github.com/yt-dlp/yt-dlp
3. iPhone or iPad: Requires iOS 14.0 or later

1. Install the a-Shell app
2. Open the App Store and install a-Shell, a local terminal emulator for iOS.
3. Launch a-Shell and set up the directory
4. Open the app and run the following commands one by one:

1. Test yt-dlp functionality
2. Try downloading a video:

1. Try extracting MP3:

1. Your files will appear in the a-Shell directory under Files > On My iPhone > a-Shell. If playback fails in the default player, try using VLC or IINA.

Open the Shortcuts app and create a new shortcut

Add an input step

1. Add "Ask for Input", set the prompt to YouTube URL.

Add a menu to choose download type

1. Add "Choose from Menu" with two options:
2. Extract MP3
3. Download Video

For "Extract MP3" option

1. Use the "Execute Command" action (becomes available with the installation of a-Shell):

For "Download Video" option

1. Similarly (note that "Ask for Input" is a Selectable Variable):

Finish the menu and save your shortcut

1. Label it something like "YT-DLP"

Optionally add Home Screen widget "Shortcuts" to have a quick way of accessing your latest shortcuts!