When you click on a Youtube link, it will automatically trigger the Youtube app and then plays your video. This integration supposed to enhance watching experiences, and yet some people found it was annoying.
Luckily, on an Android phone you can disable this behavior and make Youtube video runs on a browser like Google Chrome. Here’s how enable the setting.
NOTE: This guide was based on Android 7.0 Nougat. Other Android versions with a different launcher may have a slightly diverse interface.
1. Go to Android Settings, select Apps.

2. Find and select Youtube.

3. Go to Open by default.

4. Tap on Open supported links.

5. Select Don’t open this app.

After this, the Youtube app won’t open when you click on a Youtube video. Instead, the default browsers will be called and will play the video.
As I mentioned before, your Android phone might have a different interface. Basically, all you need to do is removing Youtube from a default app when a Youtube link clicked.
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Another way to watch Youtube without Youtube app

If you don’t want to change the default setting, you can hold and tap Open in new tab on a Youtube link. It will run the video on a new Youtube page within a browser.
This method is especially useful when you are using a browser but won’t work when the link is attached to emails, messages, or other apps since they don’t have the same mentioned feature as browsers.
If you found any difficulties following this guide, please leave a comment below. Thank you.
Additional Tips for Managing YouTube Links on Android
Alternative Browsers for Better Control
If you frequently encounter issues with links opening in the YouTube app, consider using browsers like Firefox or Brave. These browsers often provide better control over link behavior and can bypass app redirects more effectively. For instance, Firefox allows you to open links directly in a browser tab without triggering the app.
Using Third-Party Tools
For advanced users, third-party tools like “Open Link With” can help manage how links are handled on your device. This app allows you to choose whether a link opens in a browser or a specific app, giving you more flexibility.
Watching YouTube Videos Without the App
If you’re looking for alternatives to the YouTube app entirely, tools like VLC Media Player or Kodi can be used to stream YouTube videos. Simply copy the video URL and paste it into these apps to watch videos without relying on the YouTube interface. For more information, check out VLC Media Player or Kodi.
FAQ
Why do links still open in the YouTube app after disabling “Open supported links”?
Some apps or system settings may override this preference. Ensure that “Instant Apps” is disabled under Google settings, and restart your device to apply changes.
Can I completely remove the YouTube app?
Yes, but only if your device allows it. On some phones, the YouTube app is pre-installed as a system app and cannot be uninstalled without rooting your device.
Is there a way to block all apps from opening links automatically?
Yes, you can disable “Open links in apps” under your phone’s default app settings. This will force all links to open in a browser by default.
Are there privacy concerns with using third-party tools?
Always review the permissions required by third-party apps before installing them. Stick to reputable tools from trusted developers to minimize risks.
By implementing these strategies, you can take full control of how YouTube links behave on your Android device!