How to turn incognito mode on YouTube in 2025 (Full Guide)

 

How to Turn on Incognito Mode on YouTube in 2025: Full Guide

YouTube's Incognito Mode is a useful feature that allows you to browse privately without saving your watch or search history. Whether you're using the YouTube app on mobile, desktop, or even YouTube TV, this guide provides step-by-step instructions for enabling and disabling Incognito Mode in 2025.

What Is Incognito Mode on YouTube?

Incognito Mode lets you use YouTube as if you’re not signed into your account. It ensures:

• No Watch or Search History: Your activity won’t affect recommendations.

• Temporary Privacy: Ideal for exploring content without leaving a trace.

• Limitations: While in Incognito Mode, you cannot comment, like, or subscribe unless you sign back in.

Step-by-Step Guide to Enable Incognito Mode

On Mobile (Android and iOS)

1. Open the YouTube App:

   • Launch the app and ensure you’re logged into your account.

2. Tap Your Profile Picture:

   • Located in the top-right corner of the screen.

3. Select "Turn on Incognito":

   • Tap this option from the dropdown menu.

4. Confirm Activation:

   • A pop-up will appear explaining that your activity won’t be saved. Tap "Got it" to proceed.

5. Identify Incognito Mode:

   • Your profile icon will change to the Incognito symbol, and a black bar at the bottom will state, “You’re incognito.”

On Desktop (PC or Laptop)

1. Log Into YouTube:

   • Open YouTube in your browser and sign into your account.

2. Use a Private Browser Window:

   • While YouTube doesn’t have a built-in Incognito Mode for desktops, you can open a private browsing window (e.g., Chrome’s Incognito Mode) to watch videos without saving history.

On YouTube TV

1. Open YouTube TV:

   • Launch the app on your smart TV or streaming device.

2. Sign Out of Your Account:

   • Click your profile icon in the top-right corner and select "Sign Out."

3. Browse Without History:

   • Without being signed in, your activity won’t be saved to any account.

How to Disable Incognito Mode

1. Tap the Incognito Icon:

   • On mobile, tap the profile icon (now replaced by the Incognito symbol).

2. Select "Turn off Incognito":

   • This will return you to your regular account view.

For desktop users browsing in a private window, simply close the browser tab or window.

Important Notes About Incognito Mode

• Session Timeout: If inactive for more than 90 minutes, Incognito Mode automatically turns off.

• Visibility Limitations: While browsing incognito, certain activities (like commenting) require signing back into your account.

• Not Fully Anonymous: Your activity may still be visible to your employer, school, or internet service provider (ISP).

Tips for Enhanced Privacy

1. Use a VPN alongside Incognito Mode for additional anonymity.

2. Pause watch and search history manually if you want similar privacy benefits while staying signed in:

   • Go to Settings → History & Privacy → Enable "Pause watch history" and "Pause search history."

Conclusion

Turning on Incognito Mode on YouTube in 2025 is quick and easy across devices like mobile phones and smart TVs. This feature allows you to browse privately without affecting your account’s recommendations or saving your activity history. For enhanced privacy, consider combining it with other tools like VPNs or private browsing windows on desktop platforms.