Apple has announced that the next iPhone and iPad will not have a pre-installed Youtube App as prior incarnations of the hardware have.
Apple did state that users will be able to continue watching Youtube videos using Web Browsers, but not as a pre-installed application. According to Apple spokeswoman Trudy Muller, Apple Inc.'s license to include the YouTube App has expired. She did not however elaborate on why it was not renewed.
Google is said to be working on a downloadable app for the Apple systems which will provide them with an opportunity to present their own advertisements and other new features which are currently not a part of the current Youtube App. Apple's version of the Youtube App has less features than the versions found on other mobile devices such as Google's Android software.
Apple and Google's competition is not unknown to the public and despite Google's claims that they are working with Apple to ensure a strong Youtube experience, there is certainly speculation that this may be one of the reasons that the licensed was not renewed.
Apple has already ditched one Google App before the Youtube announcement. Apple announced earlier in the year that Google Maps will no longer be included in their future operating systems. The giant even introduced its own map application to replace Google Maps. However, it is unlikely they try their own video app to compete with Youtube, which is far and away the most popular video website.