App stores are full of "video downloaders" that show more advertising than videos, and the stores remove them again and again. You do not need any of them. A browser is enough to download videos on Android and iPhone. Here is how.
On Android
- In the app of the platform, tap Share and then Copy link.
- Open AIOVideoDL in Chrome or another browser.
- Paste the link, press Download and choose a size.
- The file is saved in the Downloads folder. It appears in your gallery and in the Files app.
On iPhone and iPad
- Copy the link in the same way: Share, then Copy link.
- Open AIOVideoDL in Safari and paste the link.
- Choose a size. Safari asks whether you want to download the file: tap Download.
- Tap the arrow in the address bar to see the download. The file is in the Files app, in the folder Downloads.
- To see it in Photos, open the file, tap the share icon and choose Save Video.
On an iPhone, choose a size without a codec label and no larger than 1080p. Photos does not accept every modern format.
Make it one tap: add the site to your home screen
In the menu of your browser choose Add to Home screen (Android) or Share → Add to Home Screen (iPhone). The site then opens like an app, full screen and without an address bar. On Android you can even share a video from another app straight into it.
Save data and memory
- Use Wi-Fi for long videos. Ten minutes in 1080p are about 200 MB.
- For a phone screen 720p is usually enough.
- If a download breaks off, start it again: the browser continues where it stopped.
Not sure which size to take? See video resolution explained.
Frequently asked questions
Where did my downloaded video go on the iPhone?
Open the Files app, tap Browse and then Downloads. In Safari you can also tap the small arrow in the address bar.
Why does the video not show up in my gallery?
Some galleries need a moment to notice new files. Open the Downloads folder in the Files app; from there you can open or move the video.
Is it safe to download videos without an app?
It is safer. A web page cannot read your contacts or your files, which many downloader apps ask for.