This report covers the technical context, risks, step-by-step installation, and practical limitations for installing an older YouTube APK on a device running Android 2.3.6 (Gingerbread).
Later versions (24.x and above) aggressively push YouTube Shorts into the subscription feed and home page. Version 23.6 keeps Shorts confined to a separate tab, giving you a cleaner browsing experience.
Download: Once you've found the right APK, download it.
Install: Navigate to the downloaded APK file (usually found in the Downloads folder) and tap on it. If prompted, allow installations from unknown sources. youtube old version apk for android 23 6 install
Complete Installation: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
Even after following the steps, you might encounter issues. Here’s how to fix them.
Through extensive testing, YouTube 17.09.37 is the most stable final version for Android 6.0. Here’s why: Download: Once you've found the right APK, download it
⚠️ Avoid versions below 14.x – They have broken APIs and cannot play most modern videos.
| YouTube Version | Android 6.0 Compatibility | Notes | |----------------|---------------------------|-------| | 17.09.37 | ✅ Perfect | Recommended | | 16.48.36 | ✅ Good | Slightly slower UI | | 15.33.34 | ✅ Works | Missing some captions | | 18.x or newer | ❌ Fails to install | Requires Android 8.0+ |
YouTube version 23.6 is considered a "golden build" by many power users. Here’s why: 480dpi – for specific screen densities
You need the exact version: YouTube 23.06.35 or 23.06.37 (both are stable for Android).
Trusted sources (as of 2025):
Search string: YouTube 23.06.35 APKMirror
Make sure to select the correct variant:
Do NOT download from random forums or "YouTube 23.6 Premium Mod" sites—they often bundle malware.