Introduction
YouTube is a popular platform for watching videos, but one limitation is that the app doesn’t allow background play. This means that as soon as you exit the app or lock your device, the video stops playing. However, there are a few workarounds that can help you keep YouTube playing in the background, allowing you to listen to music, podcasts, or other audio content while using other apps or browsing the web.
Method 1: YouTube Premium
The easiest and most straightforward way to keep YouTube playing in the background is by subscribing to YouTube Premium. With a YouTube Premium subscription, you can enjoy background play on both the YouTube app and the website. Here’s how to enable background play with YouTube Premium:
- Open the YouTube app on your device.
- Tap on your profile picture in the top-right corner.
- Select “Get YouTube Premium” from the menu.
- Follow the prompts to subscribe to YouTube Premium.
- Once subscribed, you can play videos in the background by simply exiting the app or locking your device.
YouTube Premium also offers additional benefits like ad-free viewing, offline downloads, and access to YouTube Originals.
Method 2: Desktop Browsers
If you prefer using YouTube on your computer, you can take advantage of certain desktop browsers that support background play. Here are a few popular browsers and how to enable background play:
| Browser | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Google Chrome | Open YouTube in Google Chrome. Right-click on the tab and select “Mute Site.” This will allow the audio to continue playing even when you switch to another tab or minimize the browser. |
| Mozilla Firefox | Open YouTube in Mozilla Firefox. Install the “Enhancer for YouTube” extension from the Firefox Add-ons store. Once installed, play a video and click on the “Background” button in the video player to enable background play. |
| Microsoft Edge | Open YouTube in Microsoft Edge. Install the “Enhancer for YouTube” extension from the Microsoft Edge Add-ons store. Once installed, play a video and click on the “Background” button in the video player to enable background play. |
These are just a few examples, and there may be other browsers or extensions that offer background play functionality. Make sure to check the browser’s documentation or search for relevant extensions if you use a different browser.
Method 3: Third-Party Apps
Another option to keep YouTube playing in the background is by using third-party apps specifically designed for this purpose. These apps allow you to play YouTube videos in the background while using other apps or browsing the web. Here are a few popular third-party apps:
These apps provide a dedicated player that allows you to play YouTube videos in the background. Simply search for the app in your device’s app store, install it, and follow the instructions to enable background play.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep YouTube playing in the background without YouTube Premium?
Yes, you can use desktop browsers or third-party apps to enable background play without a YouTube Premium subscription. However, these methods may have limitations or require additional steps compared to YouTube Premium.
Are third-party apps safe to use?
While many third-party apps are safe to use, it’s important to exercise caution and only download apps from trusted sources. Read reviews, check the app’s permissions, and do some research before installing any third-party app on your device.
Can I use background play on mobile devices?
Yes, you can use third-party apps like MX Player or Music Pocket on mobile devices to enable background play. These apps are available for both Android and iOS platforms.
Is background play available on the YouTube website?
Yes, if you have a YouTube Premium subscription, you can enable background play on the YouTube website as well. Simply play a video and switch to another tab or minimize the browser to continue playing the audio in the background.
Can I download YouTube videos for offline background play?
Yes, YouTube Premium allows you to download videos for offline playback. This means you can download videos and watch them in the background without an internet connection.
Conclusion
While YouTube doesn’t natively support background play, there are several methods you can use to keep YouTube playing in the background on your device. Whether you choose to subscribe to YouTube Premium, use desktop browsers with background play functionality, or install third-party apps, you can now enjoy your favorite YouTube content while multitasking and browsing the web.
Remember to respect the terms of service and copyright laws when using third-party apps or extensions. It’s always a good idea to check the legality and safety of any app or extension before installing it on your device.
