Google recently announced the end of support for YouTube Data API v2 which is used by older devices, this means that those devices will no longer support the native YouTube application. As far as iOS devices are concerned this change means that any device running iOS 6 or earlier won’t be able to use the YouTube app, it also applies to the 2nd generation Apple TV and older models.
The YouTube app for the 2nd-gen Apple TV and older units has now been pulled. YouTube icon that has been a staple in the main menu has been removed, and so has the Settings menu option.
Only existing third-generation Apple TV units can access the YouTube app since they ship with the overhauled app in the first place.
For those who own devices that can’t be upgraded past iOS 6 it doesn’t entirely matter that the app will be inaccessible, because they can always fire up the browser and visit m.youtube.com.
Since the Apple TV doesn’t have a native web browser this change means that people who own older Apple TV units will not be able to access YouTube at all using the set-top box.
Perhaps this change might compel them to purchase Apple’s new set-top box, a refreshed Apple TV is expected to be unveiled at the WWDC 2015 conference next month.