Quick answer
In the YouTube app on Xbox, go to Sign in & Settings and select Sign in. Enter the code at youtube.com/activate (or yt.be/activate), then choose Allow Access.
Install YouTube on Xbox
Open the Microsoft Store on the console, search for YouTube and install it.
Sign in on Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One
- Open YouTube and go to Sign in & Settings on the left.
- Select Sign in.The console shows a code.
- Enter the code at youtube.com/activate on your phone or computer.
- Choose your account and Allow Access.The Xbox signs in by itself.
Opens Google's official page in a new tab. Type your code there, never on any other site.
Xbox problems and fixes
- "YouTube isn't available right now": usually a slow connection. Restart the router, then test it in Settings → General → Network settings.
- Full restart: hold the Xbox button on the console for 10 seconds, unplug for 30 seconds, then turn it on.
- Reinstall: My games & apps → Apps → YouTube → Manage app → Uninstall, then install it again.
Questions people ask
Is youtube.com/activate the same as yt.be/activate?
Yes. Both open Google's Connect a device page. Use whichever is easier to type.
YouTube on Xbox says it isn't available right now.
Google links this to a slow connection. Restart the console and router, and test the network in the Xbox network settings.