yt-dlp

Download YouTube videos, audio, transcripts, and metadata using yt-dlp.

Updated Mar 8, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/helix4u/hermes-agent-private --skill yt-dlp-helix4u
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: yt-dlp
Source: https://github.com/helix4u/hermes-agent-private/tree/main/skills/media/yt-dlp
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/helix4u/hermes-agent-private --skill yt-dlp-helix4u

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill requires youtube-transcript-api, and includes scripts (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill streamlines the process of downloading YouTube videos, extracting audio and transcripts, and summarizing content, saving users time and effort in managing online video resources.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Video & Audio Downloads: Download YouTube videos or audio in various formats.
  • Transcript Extraction: Fetch automatic or manual subtitles for videos.
  • Metadata Retrieval: Get detailed information about videos, channels, and playlists.
  • Video Summarization: Automatically generate summaries of video content when only a URL is provided.
  • Use Case: Quickly get a summary of a long YouTube tutorial, download a lecture for offline viewing, or extract subtitles for translation.

Quick Start

Use the yt-dlp skill to summarize the YouTube video at the provided URL.

Frequently Asked Questions about yt-dlp

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I download YouTube video transcripts and subtitles for offline reading?

To download YouTube transcripts, this Skill fetches automatic or manual subtitles using a dedicated transcript API. It organizes these extracted text files into a temporary folder workflow, allowing you to access and read video content offline.

Can I automatically summarize a YouTube video from a URL?

Yes, you can automatically summarize a YouTube video by simply providing the URL. The Skill retrieves the video transcript and metadata to generate a concise content summary, saving you time watching long tutorials or lectures.

How do I extract YouTube audio and video files using yt-dlp?

To extract YouTube audio and video files, this Skill utilizes the yt-dlp tool to download media in various formats. Downloaded media files are managed through a structured temporary folder workflow for organized local access.

What is the best way to get YouTube playlist and channel statistics?

The best way to get YouTube playlist and channel statistics is through metadata retrieval. The Skill inspects playlists and retrieves detailed channel statistics, providing structured information about video collections and creator metrics.

Does this YouTube download approach work without manual subtitle files?

Yes, this YouTube download approach works without manual subtitle files by leveraging the youtube-transcript-api dependency. It automatically fetches generated subtitles and video metadata, requiring only the video URL to process and summarize content.