YouTube Vanced, a widely-used community-modified version of the YouTube Android app, is shutting down due to a legal threat from Google. The developers of the app have announced that the project will be terminated in the coming days, and all download links will be taken down as a result of the legal action.
Legal Threat from Google
The developers of YouTube Vanced received a cease and desist letter from Google, demanding that they change the app’s logo and remove all references and links to YouTube.
What is YouTube Vanced?
YouTube Vanced, also known simply as Vanced, is a third-party app created by the community to circumvent various restrictions and modifications imposed by YouTube. In addition to providing an ad-free experience, including sponsor content, without requiring a YouTube Premium subscription, Vanced offers users the ability to customize their YouTube experience extensively.
Features of YouTube Vanced
Android enthusiasts who were dissatisfied with the official YouTube app found Vanced appealing for its range of features, including:
- A true black theme
- Removal of Shorts and ads for movies on YouTube
- Various video player-related options
- Restoration of the dislike button
- Background video playback
- Ad blocking without a YouTube Premium subscription
Demise of Unofficial YouTube Apps
YouTube Vanced is not the first unofficial YouTube app to face termination. Recently, YouTube’s legal team targeted two popular Discord bots, Groovy and Rhythm, which facilitated music listening.
While Vanced is coming to an end, other unofficial YouTube apps like the open-source NewPipe continue to operate. Given its open-source nature, NewPipe may have a better chance of survival compared to Vanced.
Continuing Use of Vanced
Existing users of YouTube Vanced can still use the app for the time being. However, it’s advisable to update to the latest version as soon as possible, as the download links will soon become inactive following the shutdown of the project.
