If you’re trying to download videos using 4K Video Downloader or its newer version, 4K Video Downloader+, and suddenly it’s just… not working — you’re not alone.
The problem is so widespread that Reddit is flooded with user complaints and questions about the issue. So, what exactly is going on? And more importantly, what can you do about it?
Let’s break it all down in this quick blog post.
What’s the Problem?
Many users have reported the following issues while using 4K Video Downloader or 4K Video Downloader+:
- The app fails to download any videos – Example Thread
- “Video unavailable to download” error keeps popping up – See Reddit Post
- It gets stuck on “Retrieving video information…” forever
- Paid users of the Plus version are also facing the same issues – Frustrated User Post
- UI of the new version is less user-friendly – User feedback
In short, the software doesn’t work the way it used to.
Why It’s Happening (According to Reddit)
1. The Original App Has Been Discontinued
A lot of users didn’t know this, but the old version of 4K Video Downloader is no longer being actively supported. The company has moved to a new version called 4K Video Downloader+, and that’s where most of the current problems are happening.
This was highlighted in a recent Reddit update where users discussed the shift and its consequences.
2. YouTube Platform Changes
Recently, YouTube rolled out backend changes that affected how downloaders extract video data. These changes include how videos are structured (like Shorts, Lives, etc.) and possibly new protection mechanisms that break third-party apps.
The result? Apps like 4K Video Downloader+ can’t “see” or parse YouTube video links properly, leading to errors and failed downloads.
This theory is supported by several Reddit discussions where users noted changes in how YouTube categorizes videos.
What About Users Who Paid?
Unfortunately, even people who purchased the Plus version are facing the same problems. Many took to Reddit to express their frustration, saying they paid, thinking it would fix the issue, but the downloads still don’t work.
Here’s one such post: Just Bought Plus, Still Can’t Download
Other Reported Problems
Some users are also facing:
- Slow performance (especially when parsing video info)
- Confusing or buggy UI in the new version
- Frequent crashes or the app freezing mid-process
All these issues are echoed across multiple posts in the subreddit, including this one: General Issue Post
Possible Workarounds
While there’s no official fix just yet, here are a few things you can try:
1. Download & Reinstall the Latest version
Some users report that uninstalling the older version and reinstalling the latest version available as of 26/04/2025 helps in fixing the issue
2. Try an Older Version
If you still have the installer for the older version of 4K Video Downloader, try reinstalling it. It may still work for some videos. Redditors are even discussing using archived versions until a fix is pushed.
3. Explore Alternatives
There are plenty of other video downloaders out there. While they may not be perfect, they could work as temporary solutions until 4K Video Downloader+ gets fixed.
This issue seems to be directly tied to recent changes on YouTube’s end, combined with the shaky launch of 4K Video Downloader+. Until the developers release an update that fixes these issues, many users will be stuck without a reliable way to download videos.
