Do you often find yourself wanting to listen to your preferred music or podcasts on YouTube while managing other tasks on your phone? Maybe you are a multitasker, similar to myself, who enjoys having background music while working or surfing the internet. Sadly, by default, YouTube does not permit playing videos in the background. However, do not worry! I have come across some clever techniques that will allow you to continue playing YouTube in the background on both Android and iOS devices. So, let’s explore and activate this concealed feature!
Method 1: Using YouTube Premium
If you are a heavy YouTube user who loves an ad-free experience and additional features, YouTube Premium is an excellent option for you. With a monthly subscription, YouTube Premium not only allows you to play videos in the background but also offers offline downloads and access to YouTube Originals. While it is a paid service, it provides a seamless and hassle-free solution to your background-playing needs.
Method 2: Desktop Mode on Browser
If you prefer not to subscribe to YouTube Premium and want a free solution, using the desktop mode on your browser is a great alternative. Follow these steps:
- Open your preferred browser (Chrome, Safari, etc.) on your phone.
- Visit the YouTube website by typing in the URL: https://www.youtube.com
- Once you are on the YouTube homepage, tap on the three dots (menu) icon to open the browser options.
- Select the “Desktop Site” option to switch to the desktop version of YouTube.
- Search and play the video you want to listen to in the background.
- Now, return to your home screen or switch to another app, and voila! The audio will continue playing in the background.
This method tricks YouTube into thinking you are using a desktop computer, allowing you to enjoy background playback.
Method 3: Third-Party Apps
If you prefer using dedicated apps to enhance your YouTube experience, there are a variety of third-party apps available on both Android and iOS platforms that enable background playback.
- Newpipe: This open-source app for Android provides background playback, ad-blocking, and the ability to download videos.
- YouTube Vanced: Available for Android devices, YouTube Vanced offers a modified version of the official YouTube app with background playback, ad-blocking, and other additional features.
- Invidious: Invidious is a web-based front-end alternative to YouTube that allows background playback and removes ads. It can be accessed through any browser on your phone.
These third-party apps offer alternative ways to enjoy background playback on YouTube, but please note that they might not comply with YouTube’s terms of service, so use them at your own risk.
Conclusion
Keeping YouTube playing in the background can greatly enhance your multitasking experience. Whether you opt for YouTube Premium, use the desktop mode on your browser, or explore third-party apps, you can now listen to your favorite YouTube content while performing other tasks on your phone. Experiment with these methods and find the one that best suits your needs. Happy listening!