You can download music from YouTube for offline listening primarily through the YouTube Music app on your phone.
Downloading Music from YouTube to Your Phone via YouTube Music
Downloading music directly from the main YouTube app is generally not supported for offline listening in the same way as music download services. The most common and official method to download music from YouTube to your phone for offline playback is by using the YouTube Music app, which requires a YouTube Music Premium or YouTube Premium subscription.
According to information provided by YouTube, there are two ways to download songs within the YouTube Music app for listening even when you're not connected to Wi-Fi. One of these methods is through smart downloads.
Methods for Downloading Music
Within the YouTube Music app, the two primary methods to get music onto your device for offline use typically include:
- Smart Downloads: This feature, explicitly mentioned as one way to download songs, automatically downloads music based on your listening history. When enabled, the app identifies music you like and downloads it overnight while connected to Wi-Fi, ensuring you always have a fresh selection of songs available offline without manual effort.
- Manual Downloads: The other way to download songs is usually by manually selecting specific songs, albums, or playlists within the app and tapping the download icon. This gives you direct control over exactly which content is stored on your device.
Why Download Music?
Downloading music allows you to:
- Listen to your favorite tracks without an internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data).
- Save mobile data while commuting or in areas with poor network coverage.
- Ensure uninterrupted playback regardless of your connectivity status.
Both smart downloads and manual downloads provide the ability to listen to your music offline within the YouTube Music app, making your library accessible anytime, anywhere.