If your movie, show, or on demand content keeps buffering, lagging, or isn't playing correctly, try one of these solutions to fix issues on your computer or mobile device. If youâre having issues on your TV, try these steps. These troubleshooting steps can help with most playback issues and errors.
If youâve tried these steps, and your video is still not playing correctly, you can test watching on a different supported device.
Fix video issues on your computer
- Sorry, there was an error licensing this video.
- This video requires payment.
- An error occurred. Please try again later.
- We are experiencing problems with our servers. Please try again later.
- Something went wrong.
If you get an error similar to the ones above, try these steps:
- Make sure your computer is up to date.
- Close and re-open your web browser.
- If you have many browser tabs open, try to close most of them except for the one youâre using for YouTube.
- Update your browser to the latest version.
- Use Google Chrome as your browser.
- Restart your device.
Fix problems with buffering or loading videos
For the best experience, use the YouTube app. If you're using a different app, switch to the YouTube app or visit youtube.com in your browser.
For an ad-free experience, consider YouTube Premium.Step 1: Try a different internet connection
Change your internet connection, then replay your video.
- If you're connected to your mobile network: Connect to Wi-Fi.
- If youâre connected to Wi-Fi: Connect to your mobile network. Note: Data rates may apply.
Step 2: Delete the app's cache
- On your device, open the Settings app.
- Tap Apps & notifications See all apps.
- Tap YouTube.
- Tap Storage & cache Clear cache.
- Replay your video.
Fix problems with your movie getting stuck
On the movie's timeline, tap fast forward to the next couple of scenes to see if the movie will start playing normally again.
If this action doesnât help, try closing and re-opening your app. If you're still having trouble, check for any app updates, then try replaying your video.
Fix problems with missing purchases in library
If youâve bought movies or shows but canât see them in your library, you may be logged into a Brand Account. To see your movies and shows, you can switch to your personal account. You can also check to see whether you have a Brand Account.
To switch to a different channel that you manage:
- Go to your profile picture .
- Tap the arrow next to your name.
- To start using that account, tap on a channel in the list.
Fix video issues on your TV
Check your internet connection
Check your streaming quality
- Select Settings in the video player.
- Select Quality and see if you have the option to manually adjust.
Quit and reopen the YouTube app
- Press the home button on your remote.
- Reopen the YouTube app.
- Try replaying your video.
Sign out of the YouTube app and sign back in
- Open the YouTube app.
- Select your profile picture and then the icon beneath to manage your profile.
- Select Next to continue and sign out.
- Go back to Settings and select Sign in. You may need to enter a code.
- Try replaying your video.
Restart your device
- Disconnect your device from power.
- Wait several seconds.
- Reconnect your device.
- Return to the YouTube app and try replaying your video.
Update the system software for your device
Check for any available updates to your deviceâs system. You can check for updates by looking in the system update section of your device settings. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to update the system, then try your video again.
If youâre having trouble updating or seeing streaming issues across several different services, check your device manufacturerâs support site for help troubleshooting.
You can also try using another method to play the title on your TV:
- If you have a Chromecast, play on another device and cast to your TV.
- If you have an HDMI cable, play from a laptop and connect to your TV.
Similarly, try watching on another device to see if the same issue continues.
Reduce broadcast delay on your TV for Primetime Channels
Broadcast delay is the delay between the camera capturing an event and the event being displayed when youâre watching on your TV.
The lower the broadcast delay, the less buffer the video player will have. With a lower broadcast delay, youâre more likely to experience playback interruption.
Network congestion and other factors may also cause live programming issues, which can delay the stream. Delays can happen even when you have a great network.
Update your broadcast delay in the YouTube app on your TV
- From the bottom right, select Settings.
- Select Broadcast Delay.
- Select Decrease or Default.
âDefaultâ is best to minimize playback interruptions. âDecreaseâ is best to reduce live spoilers. Choose the âDecreaseâ option if you want low broadcast delay with minimal playback interruptions.
Send feedback
You can submit feedback about issues watching videos on the YouTube app by going to your profile icon Help and Feedback Send Feedback directly after your playback problem.