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How to Play YouTube Video in Background on Android, iOS, and PC

By: Author Alex Lim

Posted on

Categories Streaming

Maximize YouTube Experience on Android Devices

Multitasking on Android is streamlined with the ability to play YouTube videos in the background.

  1. Begin by launching the YouTube app and selecting video.
  2. Use the Share button to copy the video’s URL.
  3. Next, paste this link into web browser and activate desktop mode from the menu.
  4. Once you lock device, the audio persists, enhancing productivity.

Note: For an uninterrupted experience, YouTube Premium offers ad-free content and offline access.

Leverage Picture-in-Picture Mode for Android

Android users with version 8.0 Oreo or newer can utilize Picture-in-Picture (PiP) for a compact viewing experience. Activate PiP by navigating to the YouTube app settings and enabling the feature.

When you press the home button while a video plays, it transitions to a small, movable window, allowing you to continue using other apps.

Streamlined YouTube Playback on iOS

iOS users can enjoy background playback without a subscription by using browsers like Dolphin or Opera. Search for video on YouTube’s mobile site and play it within the browser.

If you exit the browser or lock device, the audio will pause, but you can resume it through the control center. This method ensures video plays in the background as you switch between different applications.

Alternative Access to YouTube Background Play

Background playback on YouTube typically requires a subscription to YouTube Music or YouTube Premium. These services provide additional features such as ad-free streaming and exclusive content.

Alternatively, downloading videos directly to device bypasses the need for the YouTube app and any subscriptions.

Enjoy YouTube Videos in the Background on Laptop or PC

Listening to YouTube videos while working on a laptop or PC is straightforward. Open YouTube in web browser, select a video, and start playing. Minimizing the browser allows the audio to continue playing.

You can manage the playback with operating system’s media controls and interact with the video by returning to the YouTube tab when needed.