YouTube is a hub of endless video content — fun, educational, but also highly distracting. If you're looking to block YouTube on iPhone and iPad, you have several options, from basic parental controls to enterprise-grade solutions like MDM.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to:
- Use Screen Time to limit YouTube app use
- Block YouTube in Safari browser
- Completely block YouTube using MDM (Mobile Device Management) like Scalefusion
- Prevent app reinstallation
- Lock devices into safe apps using Guided Access
Let’s dive in.
Why Block YouTube on iOS Devices?
Blocking YouTube is common in homes, schools, and workplaces. Here's why:
- Parental Control: Prevent kids from accessing inappropriate content.
- Education Focus: Schools restrict YouTube to keep students focused on educational apps.
- Workplace Productivity: IT admins limit YouTube during work hours.
- Digital Well-being: Individuals looking to reduce screen addiction.
Method 1: Use Screen Time to Restrict the YouTube App
Apple’s Screen Time feature lets you limit app usage and apply passcode restrictions.
Steps:
- Open Settings > Screen Time
- Tap App Limits > Add Limit
- Select Entertainment > YouTube
- Set the limit to 1 minute
- Enable Block at End of Limit
- Back out and enable Screen Time Passcode
Once the limit is reached, the app requires a passcode to access.
Pros: Native feature, quick to set up
Cons: Kids may find workarounds or reset device
Method 2: Block YouTube in Safari Using Web Content Filters
Blocking the app is only half the solution — YouTube can still be accessed via browser. Here’s how to fix that.
Steps:
- Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions
- Tap Content Restrictions > Web Content
- Select Limit Adult Websites
- Under Never Allow, add:
youtube.comm.youtube.comyoutube-nocookie.com
This restricts YouTube access across Safari and most third-party browsers.
Method 3: Block YouTube on iPhone and iPad Using MDM (Scalefusion)
While Screen Time is good for individual devices, it doesn’t scale for classrooms or organizations. This is where MDM solutions come in.
What is MDM?
Apple Mobile Device Management (MDM) allows IT admins to remotely control, restrict, and monitor devices from a centralized dashboard.
Why Use MDM to Block YouTube?
- Manage hundreds or thousands of devices
- Remotely push policies (no need for physical access)
- Prevent app installation, even sideloaded ones
- Whitelist/blacklist websites
- Apply YouTube restrictions consistently across users
Blocking YouTube with Scalefusion MDM
Scalefusion is a powerful, easy-to-use MDM platform trusted by schools and enterprises worldwide.
How to Block YouTube with Scalefusion
Step 1: Enroll Devices
- Sign up at Scalefusion.com
- Add iOS devices using Apple Business Manager or Apple Configurator
Step 2: Create a Device Profile
- Navigate to Device Profiles > Create Profile
- Choose iOS and configure:
- App Whitelisting: Add only required apps (YouTube excluded)
-
App Blacklisting: Add YouTube app bundle ID (
com.google.ios.youtube) - Safari Restrictions: Block YouTube URLs
Step 3: Push Web Content Filter
- Go to Policies > Web Content Filtering
- Block:
https://www.youtube.comhttps://m.youtube.comhttps://youtube-nocookie.com
- Use wildcard blocking to ensure subdomains are blocked
Step 4: Publish Profile
- Assign the profile to selected devices or groups
- Devices receive restrictions instantly via OTA (over-the-air)
Bonus: You can also disable App Store and prevent profile deletion to avoid tampering.
Use Cases for MDM Blocking
- Schools: Manage student iPads during school hours
- Corporate BYOD: Ensure YouTube isn’t accessed during work hours
- Kiosk Mode: Lock device into a single app (e.g., a learning app)
Scalefusion even supports custom branding, location tracking, and compliance reports — going far beyond simple parental controls.
Method 4: Delete YouTube and Block Reinstallation
To completely eliminate the app:
- Delete the YouTube app
- Go to Settings > Screen Time
- Tap iTunes & App Store Purchases
- Set Installing Apps to Don’t Allow
This ensures YouTube stays off the device permanently unless restrictions are removed.
Method 5: Use Guided Access (For One-Time Lockdowns)
Perfect for younger children.
Steps:
- Enable Guided Access via Settings > Accessibility
- Set a passcode
- Open the allowed app (e.g., Duolingo)
- Triple-click Side/Home button
- Tap Start
Now, your child cannot exit that app without the passcode, for a better protection you can use iPad kiosk mode.
Comparison Table
Summary: Choosing the Right Method
- For parents: Use Screen Time + browser restrictions
- For schools/IT: Go with Scalefusion MDM for centralized, scalable control
- For full lockdown: Delete app, restrict browser, and apply Guided Access if needed
FAQs
Can MDM block YouTube app and website at the same time?
Yes. Scalefusion MDM lets you blacklist the app and filter YouTube URLs in Safari or Chrome.
Can kids bypass Screen Time?
With enough tech knowledge — yes. But MDM cannot be bypassed without admin privileges.
Does Scalefusion support BYOD setups?
Yes. You can deploy policies in supervised and unsupervised modes for both school-owned and personal devices.
Is MDM overkill for home use?
If managing a few devices, yes. But for 5+ children, home school, or digital detox scenarios, it’s a worthwhile investment.
Related Reads
- How to Set Up Scalefusion MDM for iOS Devices
- Best App Whitelisting Practices for iPhones
- Guide: Blocking Social Media on iOS with MDM
Final Thoughts: MDM for Modern Device Control
YouTube is powerful, but power requires limits. While Apple’s Screen Time offers basic restriction features, Scalefusion MDM unlocks full control, visibility, and scalability.
For schools, enterprises, and tech-savvy homes, MDM isn't just a tool — it’s peace of mind.
💬 Have questions about MDM deployment or blocking YouTube in your environment? Drop them in the comments below!