Is the Vinegar extension safe to use on Apple devices?

ChatGPT says:

• Vinegar is listed on the official Safari Extension platform (via App Store). That means it passes some of the review and code-signing requirements imposed by Apple Inc.. 
• Its stated functionality is straightforward: it replaces the YouTube video player on websites with a minimal HTML5 video tag.  
• The permissions it requires are described as “can read and alter webpages.” That’s needed technically so it can detect the YouTube player and replace it — not inherently malicious by itself.  
• Several tech-review sources say it does what it claims: blocks ads on YouTube, restores picture-in-picture, enables background playback, and avoids YouTube’s heavy player/tracking when using Safari website.  

So far, there’s no public evidence that Vinegar engages in hidden data collection, tracking, or malicious behavior — which tends to be the main privacy/security worry with browser extensions.

From user reports and reviews: Vinegar seems to suffer from instability, bugs, or inconsistent behavior. Common complaints: videos failing to load, playback controls not working, frequent need to refresh, PiP or background playback failing sometimes.  

https://appsupports.co/1591303229/vinegar-tube-cleaner/negative-reviews?utm_source=chatgpt.com