Trying to watch videos on your iPad Pro and YouTube keeps crashing or won’t load? You’re not alone. This issue is common even on newer devices like the iPad Pro 2018. Whether the app closes on launch, freezes while loading, or won’t play videos, these troubleshooting steps will help you fix the problem and get back to watching.
1. Check Your Internet Connection First
YouTube needs a stable internet connection to work.
- Restart your Wi-Fi router by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in.
- On your iPad, toggle Wi-Fi off and on via Settings > Wi-Fi.
- Or try the Airplane Mode trick:
- Go to Settings > Airplane Mode > turn it ON.
- Wait a few seconds, then turn it OFF and reconnect to Wi-Fi.
If other apps are loading slowly too, it’s likely a connection issue.
2. Force Close YouTube and Background Apps
Crashes often happen when the app glitches in memory.
- Swipe up from the bottom of the screen and pause in the middle.
- Swipe up on YouTube and any other apps to close them.
- Reopen YouTube and test.
3. Restart Your iPad Pro (Soft Reset)
Random system glitches can be cleared with a reboot.
- Press and hold the Top button and either Volume button until the power slider appears.
- Drag the slider to power off.
- After 30 seconds, press the Top button again to turn your iPad back on.
Now try launching YouTube again.
4. Update the YouTube App
Running an outdated version can cause instability.
- Open the App Store.
- Tap your profile icon in the top-right corner.
- Scroll to available updates.
- Tap Update next to YouTube (or Update All).
After updating, open the app and check if it’s working.
5. Check for App Restrictions
Restrictions may be blocking YouTube or limiting its function.
- Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions.
- Tap Allowed Apps and make sure YouTube is enabled.
- Or toggle Content & Privacy Restrictions OFF entirely to test.
6. Delete and Reinstall the YouTube App
If the app is corrupt, reinstalling may fix it.
- Tap and hold the YouTube app until it wiggles.
- Tap the X, then confirm Delete.
- Reboot your iPad.
- Reinstall YouTube via the App Store.
Launch it after reinstalling and sign in again if needed.
7. Update iPadOS
System bugs can also cause app crashes, especially after a new iOS release.
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- If an update is available, tap Download and Install.
Be sure your iPad is charged and connected to Wi-Fi during the update.
8. Reset Network Settings
If YouTube still won’t work and you’ve ruled out app problems, your network settings may be the culprit.
⚠️ This removes saved Wi-Fi networks, VPNs, and Bluetooth connections.
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
- Enter your passcode and confirm.
Reconnect to Wi-Fi and test YouTube afterward.