How to Get YouTube Videos to Play in the Background: Enabling Background Playback on YouTube

If you've ever wanted to listen to your favorite YouTube videos while doing other tasks on your device, you're not alone! Background playback is a fantastic feature that allows you to enjoy audio content without needing to keep the video in the foreground. Whether it's music, podcasts, or informative talks, this functionality can elevate your multitasking game. In this guide, we'll explore how to enable this handy feature and make the most out of your YouTube experience.

Understanding YouTube's Background Playback Feature

So, what exactly is the background playback feature? Simply put, it's a function that allows your YouTube videos to continue playing even when you switch apps or lock your screen. This is particularly useful for:

Listening to music playlists.
Tuning into educational or motivational videos.
Enjoying lengthy podcasts without interruptions.

Here's how it works:

Device	Background Playback Availability
iOS (iPhone/iPad)	Available with YouTube Premium
Android	Available with YouTube Premium
Desktop	Not available without a third-party solution

To enjoy background playback on YouTube, you need to subscribe to YouTube Premium, which unlocks not only this feature but also provides an ad-free viewing experience and access to YouTube Music. It's important to note that the standard app does not support background playback due to restrictions that prevent videos from playing when minimized.

In summary, background playback on YouTube is your ticket to a seamless audio experience across various tasks on your device. Whether you’re cooking, studying, or just relaxing, it ensures you never miss a beat!

Read This: Recording Sound From YouTube on a Mac: Tools and Tips for Beginners

Requirements for Enabling Background Playback

Before diving into how you can play YouTube videos in the background, it’s important to know what you need to get started. There are a few requirements to keep in mind that will help ensure a smooth experience. Let's break it down:

Device Compatibility: Make sure you’re using a device that supports background playback. Generally, this means having a smartphone or tablet, as most web browsers on desktop devices do not allow background playback.
YouTube App: For the most seamless experience, make sure you have the latest version of the YouTube app installed on your device. Background playback is primarily a feature aimed at app users.
YouTube Premium Subscription: To enable background playback for free, you’ll need a YouTube Premium subscription. YouTube Premium offers a variety of benefits, including an ad-free experience and the ability to download videos. Without this subscription, your options may be limited.
Active Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection. Background playback requires a constant stream to maintain the audio playback, so Wi-Fi or mobile data should be consistently available.

By having these requirements sorted out, you’ll be ready to put your YouTube playback on autopilot and enjoy your favorite tunes or podcasts while multitasking, whether you’re working, exercising, or simply unwinding!

Read This: Does YouTube Tell You Who Viewed Your Video? Understanding Viewer Privacy and Analytics

Methods to Enable Background Playback on YouTube

So, you've got your requirements in order, and you're ready to get started with background playback. There are several methods you can use, depending on whether you're using YouTube's app or its website. Here’s a handy guide:

1. Using YouTube App with YouTube Premium

If you’re a YouTube Premium subscriber, enabling background playback is straightforward:

Open the YouTube app on your device.
Start playing the video you want to listen to.
Press the home button on your device. The video will continue to play in the background, allowing you to use other apps simultaneously.

2. Using a Mobile Browser

For those who don’t have a YouTube Premium subscription, here's a workaround:

Open your mobile browser and go to the YouTube website.
Request the Desktop Site from the browser menu.
Start playing a video, then switch to home or another app. Some browsers may continue the audio in the background.

3. Third-Party Apps or Websites

You can also explore third-party applications designed to play YouTube videos in the background:

YouTube Vanced: This is a popular modified app that allows users to enjoy background playback for free, among other features.
Browser Extensions: If you’re on desktop, some browser extensions can enable background audio playback when you’re watching YouTube.

To summarize, whether you're leveraging YouTube Premium or exploring creative workarounds, enjoying your favorite videos while multitasking has never been easier! Just pick the method that works best for you, and start enjoying uninterrupted audio from your YouTube videos.

Read This: Can You See Who Likes Your YouTube Videos? Exploring Engagement and Analytics on YouTube

Using YouTube Premium for Background Playback

If you're looking for a hassle-free way to enjoy your favorite YouTube videos while multitasking, then YouTube Premium might just be your new best friend. This paid service from YouTube allows users to play videos in the background without interruption, making it perfect for listening to music, podcasts, or even lectures while you're doing something else.

One of the key features of YouTube Premium is the ability to minimize the app and continue playing audio even when your screen is off. This means you can easily switch apps, browse the internet, or even lock your phone without missing a beat. Here’s how you can make the most of YouTube Premium:

Ad-Free Experience: Enjoy all your videos without those pesky ads interrupting your flow.
Offline Viewing: Download videos for later viewing, which is great for when you’re on the go and don’t have internet access.
YouTube Music: Access the vast library of songs and playlists seamlessly integrated with your video content.
Exclusive Content: Gain access to premium original series and movies only available to subscribers.

To enable background playback, simply download the YouTube app, sign up for YouTube Premium, and you’re all set. Once subscribed, just play any video and exit the app. As long as background playback is enabled in your settings, you won’t miss a moment of sound!

Read This: Does YouTube TV Include the ACC Network? A Look at College Sports Networks on YouTube TV

Alternative Solutions for Background Playback

If subscribing to YouTube Premium isn't on your to-do list, don't worry! There are some alternative solutions that can help you achieve background playback for your YouTube videos. While they may not offer the same seamless experience as YouTube Premium, they can certainly do the trick. Let's unveil some options!

Using a Web Browser: Most mobile web browsers allow you to play YouTube videos in the background. Open YouTube in your browser (like Chrome or Safari), and set it to desktop mode. Play a video and then switch apps or lock your screen – you’ll often still hear the audio.
Third-Party Apps: There are various third-party apps, such as “NewPipe” for Android or “WebTube” for iOS, designed specifically for background playback. Just be cautious with the permissions you grant them!
Screen Pinning: For those on Android, you can use the screen pinning feature to keep the video on your screen while using other apps. Just keep in mind that this won’t allow you to fully lock your device.
Using Music Players: If you’re primarily interested in music, consider using dedicated music streaming services like Spotify or Apple Music, which offer many mainstream songs found on YouTube.

No matter what method you decide to go for, always ensure you respect copyright and usage rights while enjoying your content. Happy listening!

Read This: Is It Possible to See Who Watched Your YouTube Videos? Privacy Explained

7. Common Issues and Troubleshooting Tips

Using YouTube in the background can be a fantastic way to enjoy your favorite content while multitasking or conserving your battery life. However, you might run into some hiccups along the way. Let’s go over some common issues and provide troubleshooting tips to help you get back on track!

1. Background Playback Not Working

If you’ve enabled background playback but it’s still not functioning, try the following:

Check Your Subscription: Make sure you’re subscribed to YouTube Premium. Background playback is a feature exclusive to Premium members.
App Updates: Ensure that your YouTube app is up to date. Sometimes bugs are fixed in the latest versions.
Device Settings: Check your device settings to confirm background data is allowed for the YouTube app.

2. Audio Stops When Phone Screen is Off

If the audio stops when your phone screen goes off, this could be due to power-saving features. Here’s what to do:

Disable Battery Optimization: Go to your phone’s settings and disable battery optimization for the YouTube app.
Use the Right Settings: Make sure you have the correct settings selected in the YouTube app itself for background playback.

3. App Crashes or Freezes

If the YouTube app crashes when you're trying to enable background playback:

Clear Cache: Clear the YouTube app’s cache from your device’s settings. This can help resolve freezing issues.
Reinstall the App: If all else fails, try uninstalling and reinstalling the app to start fresh.

With these troubleshooting tips, you should be set to enjoy a seamless background playback experience on YouTube!

Read This: How Much Do 10K Views on YouTube Make? Insights into Creator Earnings

8. Conclusion: Enjoying YouTube Videos in the Background

Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge of how to enable background playback on YouTube, you can truly elevate your viewing experience. There’s something incredibly liberating about being able to listen to podcasts, music, or any content while you're on the go or even when your screen is off. It opens up a world where you can multitask without that pesky video stopping every time you switch apps!

Here’s a quick recap:

Subscribe to YouTube Premium for the ultimate experience.
Adjust your device settings to allow background app activity.
Troubleshoot common issues if things aren’t working smoothly.

Whether you're pumping iron at the gym, doing chores around the house, or commuting, enjoying uninterrupted listening can transform how you engage with content. So, take these tips to heart, and enjoy your YouTube videos in the background like never before! Happy watching!

Related Tags