As of next month, YouTube will no longer be available to stream on the third-generation Apple TV, released in 2012. 9to5Mac reports that a message is being displayed to users, alerting them to the upcoming change. The fourth-generation Apple TV HD and fifth-generation Apple TV 4K, the two streaming boxes that Apple currently sells, are not affected.
Here is the full message shown to users (via 9to5Mac):
Launch YouTube, the YouTube app will no longer be available on Apple TV (3rd generation). You can still watch YouTube on Apple TV 4K, Apple TV HD, iPhone or iPad. With AirPlay, you can also stream YouTube directly from your iOS device to any Apple TV (3rd generation or later).
Although it will soon no longer be possible to run YouTube on the third generation Apple TV itself, owners can still stream the service from an iPhone or iPad with AirPlay. We have a guide on how you can do this here.
Other streaming services have also gradually abandoned their older Apple TV models. Last year, HBO removed its HBO Now app from the second and third generation Apple TV boxes, after initially slowing down due to the pandemic. These programs will also not be the last. While its newer devices include tvOS and a built-in App Store, the built-in apps on Apple’s old TV boxes relied on streaming services that work directly with Apple to provide support.
If you own an old Apple TV and simply can not live without the YouTube app, it may be time to replace your streaming device. Our current top choice for the task is the Roku Streaming Stick Plus and Roku Premiere, both of which are cheaper than Apple’s current range of streaming devices.