If you’re encountering the frustrating “Something went wrong” error on YouTube, preventing you from signing in or watching videos on your PC, Mac, Android, iPhone, or iPad, this guide will help you troubleshoot and resolve the issue. This error can appear across various platforms, though iOS users have reported seeing it more frequently, it also affects Android and web users. This guide outlines several effective methods to fix the “Something went wrong” error on YouTube and get you back to watching your favorite content.

Before you start: Ensure you have your Wi-Fi passwords handy if you reset network settings, as you’ll need to reconnect.

How to resolve the “Something went wrong” error on YouTube

Follow these steps to diagnose and fix the “Something went wrong” error on YouTube.

  • Reset network settings on your phone or tablet. Old network information can sometimes cause conflicts.
    • If iPhone: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
    • If Android: Go to Settings > General management > Reset > Reset network settings > Reset settings.

    After resetting, you will need to re-enter passwords for any Wi-Fi networks you previously connected to.

  • Update your phone or tablet. Out-of-date software can lead to various issues. Download and install any available updates. Go to Settings > General (iPhone only) > Software Updates > Install/Download & Install (iPhone) / Check for updates (Android).
  • Update the YouTube mobile app. An outdated app might have bugs or glitches. Open the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and update the YouTube app.
  • Toggle airplane mode on your phone or tablet. This can clear temporary glitches by quickly interrupting and restarting your internet connection.
    • If iPhone X or newer:Swipe down from the top-right corner to open Control Center.
    • If iPhone 8 or older:Swipe up from the bottom center of your screen to open Control Center.
    • If Android:Swipe down twice from the top of your screen to open the Quick Settings panel.

    Tap the airplane icon to enable airplane mode, then tap it again to disable it. You may need to manually reconnect to your Wi-Fi network in Settings if it doesn’t reconnect automatically.

  • Allow “Cellular Data” and “Background App Refresh” for YouTube on your iPhone or iPad. These settings are crucial for the app’s proper functioning. OpenSettings > Cellular/Mobile Data > YouTube > Cellular Data, ensuring it’s enabled. Then return to General in Settings and navigate to Background App Refresh > YouTube > Background App Refresh, ensuring it’s also enabled.
  • Clear your cache. Corrupted temporary files can cause errors on any platform (Android, iPhone, iPad, or web browser).
    • If iPhone:Uninstall and then reinstall the YouTube app.
    • If Android:OpenSettings > Apps > YouTube > Storage > Clear Cache.
    • If web browser:Go to your browser’s Settings, then Privacy and security > Clear browsing data.
  • Use a different login method or browser on all devices. The issue might be with the specific app or browser you’re using. If you’re using the mobile app, try accessing YouTube through your mobile web browser. If you’re using Chrome, try Edge or Firefox instead.
  • Allow cookies in your web browser. YouTube needs to use cookies to communicate with your browser. Without them, you might see the error during login attempts. Navigate to your browser’s Site Settings, then Cookies and data, and selectAllow all cookies. If there’s a Customized Behaviors section, addwww.youtube.com” to always allow cookies for the site.
  • Restart your device. A simple restart can clear many temporary bugs and glitches. Turn off your iPhone, iPad, Android device, or computer, then turn it back on.
  • Check YouTube’s status. Although rare, YouTube’s servers can be down, causing the error. Use third-party sites like downdetector.com to verify if YouTube’s services are experiencing outages.
  • Stop using VPN. While VPNs enhance privacy, they can sometimes interfere with YouTube’s proper functioning. Turn off your VPN and try using YouTube again.
Pro tip: Regularly updating your device’s software and all your apps, including YouTube, is one of the best ways to prevent common errors and ensure optimal performance.

What to do next?

After successfully resolving the “Something went wrong” error, take a moment to ensure your YouTube experience remains smooth. You might want to consider reviewing your app and browser settings to optimize performance and privacy for future use.

For ongoing smooth streaming, ensure your internet connection is stable and consider regularly clearing your browser’s cache. If you frequently use a VPN, you might explore VPN services that offer dedicated streaming servers, which are less likely to cause issues with platforms like YouTube.