In the standard Apple ecosystem, apps receive frequent updates that require newer iOS versions. Eventually, developers drop support for older hardware. For devices on iOS 9.3.5, the official YouTube app became unusable—either crashing upon launch, refusing to sign in, or displaying a message requiring an iOS update that the device cannot install. This renders a major function of the device obsolete, driving users toward modified third-party solutions.

A or "story" of the steps required to get the app running on older hardware today?

The app checks its own version number; if it’s too old, the server rejects the connection.

You can find these on archives like MTMDev or Archive.org specifically labeled for iOS 9.

If you do not want to jailbreak or use a patched IPA, you can use these more stable methods:

Unlike standard apps from the App Store, an IPA file must be installed manually. This process is known as "sideloading." Users typically use software on a computer (such as Cydia Impactor, AltStore, or Sideloadly) to sign the IPA file with their Apple ID and install it onto the device via USB connection. Once installed, the app appears on the home screen like any other application.

Resolved "Update Required" loop and "Error Loading" playback issues. Requirements: Jailbroken device, AppSync Unified installed.