The YouTube mobile app is robust, but sometimes you need the desktop site for advanced features like detailed analytics, full playlists, or channel management. Here’s how to access the YouTube desktop site on your Android or iPhone using popular browsers.
How to Access the YouTube Desktop Site on Android
1. Using Chrome
- Open Chrome on your Android device.
- Type www.youtube.com in the address bar.
- Tap the three dots in the top-right corner.
- Select Desktop Site.
2. Using Firefox
- Open Firefox and go to www.youtube.com.
- Tap the three dots in the lower-right corner.
- Enable Desktop Site.
3. Using Opera
- Open Opera and navigate to www.youtube.com.
- Tap the three dots in the top-right corner.
- Toggle Desktop Site.
How to Access the YouTube Desktop Site on iPhone
1. Using Safari
- Open Safari and visit www.youtube.com.
- Tap the “aA” icon in the address bar.
- Select Request Desktop Website.
2. Using Chrome
- Open Chrome and go to www.youtube.com.
- Tap the Share icon in the top-right corner.
- Select Request Desktop Site.
3. Using Firefox
- Open Firefox and visit www.youtube.com.
- Tap the three dots in the top-right corner.
- Select Request Desktop Site.
How do I switch back to the mobile site?
Uncheck the Desktop Site option in your browser menu, and the page will reload in mobile mode.
Is desktop mode safe to use?
Yes, as long as you’re using a trusted browser.
Can I access desktop-only features on the app?
No, features like detailed analytics and bulk video management require the desktop site.
What’s the downside of using desktop mode on mobile?
Smaller text, slower loading times, and higher data usage.
Can I make desktop mode the default?
Yes. Go to your browser’s Settings, find Site Settings, and enable Desktop Mode.
Why does the desktop site revert to mobile in a new tab?
Browsers reset preferences for new tabs. Re-enable Desktop Site for each tab.
