When it was revealed that Apple removed YouTube as a native app in iOS 6, it was a welcome sign that Google would regain control over the stagnant app that Apple rarely updated. Today, Google released a new standalone YouTube app for iPhone, a day before Apple’s announcement.
Apple may announce the official release date for iOS 6 and possible updates to devices tomorrow, but iPhone users are currently able to experience an improved redesign and functionality of the YouTube app today. YouTube for iOS mirrors the Android app with a similar layout that includes the different sharing options with an increased response time when browsing videos or channels.
Adding a voice search gives another level of functionality for quick browsing. If you have been disappointed with the old YouTube app in iOS 5, the new app is a substantial evolution.
To like or share videos, you have to be signed into your Google account. But you will have access to your channel subscriptions and videos marked to watch later. The app does have the iOS polish, and the user interface borrows a few elements from the Android app, but also retains the iOS theme. Playback quality depends on your data connection, but keep in mind that browsing on Wi-Fi is still the best option for capped data plans.
With YouTube back in the hands of developers at Google, iOS users can expect frequent updates to fix bugs and improve functionality. This first release is almost identical to the Android YouTube app and that’s a great thing for iOS users.
Tomorrow’s Apple announcement may introduce a new streaming video player, but YouTube is still the best on any platform.
