5 Ways to Fix YouTube Thumbnails Not Showing

Quick Tips

• YouTube thumbnails may not load due to poor network connection or if you’re using an older version of the app.
• Clearing the app cache or using YouTube in incognito mode might help.
• As a last resort, try using Google’s DNS to restore thumbnails.

Fix 1: Connect to a Stable Network

Since YouTube streams videos from the internet, you need a stable internet connection to use YouTube seamlessly.

An unstable or slow connection can cause problems like YouTube comments not loading or thumbnails not showing. If you’re using mobile data, switch to a reliable Wi-Fi connection.

Fix 2: Clear YouTube App’s Cache and Data

Clearing cache and app data can sometimes fix issues like these, so you can try it. It’s also helpful if you see a black screen on YouTube.

On Android

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your smartphone and navigate to the Apps section. Then, select YouTube.

Step 2: Select the Storage tab. Tap on Clear cache, followed by Clear data.

Clear Browser Cache on Desktop

Step 1: Open a tab in Chrome. Click on the three dots at the top-right corner and select Settings.

Step 2: Click on Privacy and security in the left column. Then, select Clear browsing data.

Step 3: In the pop-up, select Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files. Ensure the Time range is set to All time. Then, click on Clear data.

Similarly, you can follow our guides to clear cookies and cache on Microsoft Edge and Firefox on your computer. Alternatively, try using a different browser to see if the thumbnails load.

Fix 3: Force Stop App and Restart

Force-stopping an app is a good way to reset it. Here’s how to go about it.

Tap and hold on to the YouTube app icon and select the i icon to access the app’s settings. Choose the Force Stop option.

Relaunch the YouTube app now.

Fix 4: Update the YouTube App to the Latest Version

There’s a chance the version of the YouTube app you’re using on your phone is old. Update it to the latest version to fix any issues with YouTube thumbnails.

Fix 5: Use Google’s DNS

Switching to Google’s DNS can help you achieve a better and faster internet experience, let alone fix issues with YouTube. Here’s how to do it.

On Android

Step 1: Open Settings on your smartphone and use the search bar to look for Private DNS. Tap on the result. Then, switch to Private DNS provider hostname.

Step 2: Enter dns.google in the blank space as your DNS provider.

On some phones, you may see the option for adding the IP address of the DNS server. In that case, enter 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 as the primary and secondary DNS, respectively. Tap on Save.

On iPhone

Step 1: Open the Settings app and navigate to Wi-Fi. Then, select the i button next to the Wi-Fi network you’re connected to before tapping on Configure DNS.

Step 2: Select Manual. Then, tap on the green + icon next to Add Server. Enter 8.8.8.8.

Step 3: Tap on the + icon once again and enter 8.8.4.4 as the secondary server. Hit Save.

Fix 6: Open YouTube in Incognito Mode

It could be possible that the Google account you’re logged into is causing errors while browsing YouTube. A good way to test this is by opening YouTube in an incognito window and seeing if the issue persists.

You should now see all the eye-catching thumbnails uploaded by creators on YouTube.