Hooks for YouTube - PiP Video
Hooks for YouTube is a Safari extension for iOS that enables ad-blocking, picture-in-picture, and background playback for YouTube.
The App DNA
What makes this app unique?
The app removes platform-imposed friction for multitasking and ad-free viewing, serving users who want premium playback features without a full YouTube Premium subscription.
For YouTube users on iOS who want to bypass platform restrictions on multitasking and ad delivery.
What does it look like?
Key features
Removes pop-ups, banners, and video ads during playback via Safari extension.
Enables floating video window for multitasking while viewing content.
Allows audio to continue playing when the app is minimized or the screen is locked.
How much does it cost?
Subscription-only model for Safari extension features, anchored by the promise of ad-free and background playback.
Velocity
Dormant developmentperformanceShow more...
Hooks for YouTube has been inactive for 868 days, placing it firmly in the zombie category. The development history shows only a single minor update focused on resolving an intermittent loading bug. There is no evidence of ongoing maintenance or new feature development, and the app has remained stagnant for over two years.
Who built it?
User Sentiment
What do users think recently?
How are ratings & reviews evolving?
Not enough recent reviews to extract reliable themes yet.
Read the full review analysisCompetition
Competitive landscape for Hooks for YouTube - PiP Video
How's the Utilities market?
Hooks for YouTube operates as a niche utility, relying on Safari extension capabilities to differentiate from the standard YouTube app. With only a single store rating, the app lacks the social proof required to scale against broader ad-blocking alternatives.
Read the market outlookThe rivals identified
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Access the full report for freeThe Analyst's Read
Key takeaways for Hooks for YouTube - PiP Video
Where is it heading?
The market for YouTube-adjacent utilities is consolidating around tools that can maintain high-frequency update cadences to bypass platform detection. Hooks for YouTube remains exposed due to its lack of development activity, which will likely lead to feature degradation as YouTube updates its web player.
- The 28-month update gap suggests the app is in maintenance mode, leaving it vulnerable to YouTube's evolving ad-delivery mechanisms.
The SWOT
- Safari extension integration enables system-level ad blocking
- Feature-parity refresh could capture churned ad-block users
Next best moves
Audit Safari extension compatibility with the latest YouTube web player because the app has not been updated since 2024 → restore core utility
The counter-intuitive read
The app's lack of updates is a feature…
Read the full takeBottom line
Hooks for YouTube offers a clear utility, but the 28-month development gap makes it a high-risk proposition for new subscribers. Verifying current compatibility with YouTube's web player is the only way to determine if the subscription model remains viable.
Unlock 1 critical friction, 1 market threat and the analyst’s take.
Access the full report for freeFAQ
Does Hooks for YouTube work with the standard YouTube app?
Is Hooks for YouTube a free app?
What is the difference between Hooks for YouTube and YouTube Premium?
Sources
- [1] App Store
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