Seal is the best app to download videos from YouTube and Instagram; it's open source
Downloading videos from social media has become quite easy
Seal stands out as the premier application for downloading videos from YouTube and Instagram, boasting an open-source structure. In comparison to other apps available on the Play Store, Seal impresses with its ad-free experience and absence of monetization tactics to unlock features. There are multiple methods to download videos for offline viewing from platforms like YouTube, but Seal offers a seamless solution without the need to switch browsers or endure intrusive ads.
After discovering Seal through a Reddit recommendation, I realized it was the only app that met my requirements - open source, no telemetry, no subscriptions, and compatibility with yt-dlp's extensive range of video formats. Its user-friendly interface, based on Material You design, simplifies the process of downloading content from various platforms, including YouTube, Twitch, and SoundCloud, which I frequently utilize.
Seal's versatility extends beyond downloading videos; it also supports media playback, allowing me to listen to lengthy e-sports matches and DJ sets without buffering issues or consuming excessive data. The app also boasts the capability to embed subtitles into video files and download YouTube video thumbnails. Downloading videos using Seal is straightforward - simply copy and paste the desired link, and Seal handles the rest.
Despite its simplicity, Seal has a few limitations. It lacks built-in browser or vault features, requiring users to copy and paste links, which can be cumbersome. Additionally, Seal is currently only available for download via sideloading from GitHub, which may deter some users. Moreover, the app faces challenges with private links and YouTube/SoundCloud videos, as well as temporary outages during YouTube policy changes.
However, Seal remains one of the rare apps that genuinely deliver on its promises, respecting user privacy and avoiding intrusive ads or subscriptions. It has become my go-to application for downloading video and audio content from my favorite websites for offline media consumption.
Written by urgent.news from Android Police's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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