The rise of smartphones and mobile devices has revolutionized the way we consume media, with YouTube being one of the most popular platforms for video content. As users, we often find ourselves wanting to multitask, switching between different apps while still enjoying our favorite videos. But can you play YouTube while on other apps? In this article, we will delve into the world of YouTube’s multitasking capabilities, exploring the features that allow you to play videos in the background while using other applications.
Introduction to YouTube’s Multitasking Features
YouTube has come a long way since its inception, with the platform constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of its users. One of the key features that have been introduced in recent years is the ability to play videos in the background while using other apps. This feature, known as background playback, allows users to continue listening to music or watching videos on YouTube while switching to other applications. However, the availability of this feature depends on the device and the YouTube app being used.
YouTube App vs. YouTube Premium
The YouTube app offers limited background playback capabilities, with videos stopping when the user switches to another app. However, with the introduction of YouTube Premium, users can enjoy uninterrupted background playback, even when the screen is locked. YouTube Premium is a paid subscription service that offers a range of benefits, including ad-free videos, exclusive content, and offline playback. For users who want to play YouTube videos while on other apps, YouTube Premium is the way to go.
Device Compatibility
The ability to play YouTube videos in the background while using other apps also depends on the device being used. Android devices offer more flexibility when it comes to background playback, with users able to play videos in the background while using other apps. On the other hand, iOS devices have more restrictions, with background playback only available for YouTube Premium subscribers. Additionally, some devices may have specific settings or configurations that need to be enabled to allow background playback.
How to Play YouTube Videos in the Background
Playing YouTube videos in the background while using other apps is a straightforward process, but it requires some setup and configuration. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
To play YouTube videos in the background, users need to have the YouTube app installed on their device. Once the app is installed, users can follow these steps:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Open the YouTube app and start playing a video |
| 2 | Tap the home button to return to the home screen |
| 3 | Open another app, such as a web browser or social media platform |
| 4 | If using an Android device, the video will continue playing in the background. If using an iOS device, the video will stop playing unless YouTube Premium is subscribed to |
Using Picture-in-Picture Mode
Another way to play YouTube videos while using other apps is by using picture-in-picture mode. This feature allows users to play videos in a small window while using other apps. To use picture-in-picture mode, users need to have Android 8.0 or later installed on their device. Once the video is playing, users can tap the home button to return to the home screen, and the video will continue playing in a small window.
Enabling Picture-in-Picture Mode
To enable picture-in-picture mode, users need to follow these steps:
- Open the YouTube app and start playing a video
- Tap the three-dot menu icon and select “Picture-in-picture”
- Tap the home button to return to the home screen
- The video will continue playing in a small window, allowing users to use other apps while watching the video
Benefits of Playing YouTube Videos in the Background
Playing YouTube videos in the background while using other apps offers a range of benefits, including:
increased productivity, as users can listen to music or watch videos while working on other tasks, and improved multitasking capabilities, as users can switch between different apps while still enjoying their favorite videos. Additionally, playing YouTube videos in the background can help users to discover new content, as they can listen to music or watch videos while browsing other apps.
Conclusion
In conclusion, playing YouTube videos while on other apps is a convenient and useful feature that can enhance the user experience. With the introduction of YouTube Premium and picture-in-picture mode, users can enjoy uninterrupted background playback and multitask with ease. Whether you’re an Android or iOS user, there are ways to play YouTube videos in the background while using other apps. By following the steps outlined in this article, users can take advantage of this feature and enjoy a more seamless and productive experience. So, the next time you’re watching a video on YouTube, don’t be afraid to switch to another app – with background playback, you can keep on watching and listening while you work, play, or browse.
Can I play YouTube videos in the background while using other apps?
Playing YouTube videos in the background while using other apps is possible, but it depends on the device and the YouTube app version you are using. On Android devices, you can play YouTube videos in the background by using the YouTube app’s built-in feature called “Background Play.” This feature allows you to continue playing videos even when you switch to another app or turn off your screen. However, this feature is only available for YouTube Premium subscribers. On the other hand, iOS devices do not have a built-in feature to play YouTube videos in the background, but you can use some workarounds to achieve this.
To play YouTube videos in the background on iOS devices, you can use the Safari browser to play the video and then swipe up to go back to the home screen. The video will continue playing in the background, but you will not be able to control it from the lock screen or the control center. Alternatively, you can use third-party apps or browser extensions that allow you to play YouTube videos in the background. However, these workarounds may not be as seamless as the built-in feature on Android devices, and they may also have some limitations. It’s worth noting that playing YouTube videos in the background can consume more battery power and data, so it’s essential to be mindful of your device’s resources when using this feature.
How do I enable background play on the YouTube app?
Enabling background play on the YouTube app is a straightforward process, but it requires a YouTube Premium subscription. To enable background play, open the YouTube app and tap on your profile picture or the menu icon. Then, go to “Settings” and look for the “Background play” option. If you have a YouTube Premium subscription, you will see a toggle switch next to “Background play.” Tap on the toggle switch to enable background play. Once you enable background play, you can play videos and switch to another app or turn off your screen, and the video will continue playing in the background.
It’s essential to note that background play may not work for all types of content, such as live streams or videos with ads. Additionally, background play may not be available in all regions or countries due to licensing restrictions. If you are not a YouTube Premium subscriber, you will not be able to enable background play, and you will see a message prompting you to upgrade to a premium subscription. YouTube Premium offers several other benefits, including ad-free videos, exclusive content, and offline playback, so it may be worth considering if you want to take advantage of background play and other premium features.
Can I play YouTube videos on my lock screen while using other apps?
Playing YouTube videos on your lock screen while using other apps is possible, but it depends on the device and the YouTube app version you are using. On Android devices, you can play YouTube videos on your lock screen by using the YouTube app’s built-in feature called “Lock screen controls.” This feature allows you to control video playback from your lock screen, including playing, pausing, and skipping videos. However, this feature is only available for YouTube Premium subscribers. On the other hand, iOS devices do not have a built-in feature to play YouTube videos on the lock screen, but you can use some workarounds to achieve this.
To play YouTube videos on your lock screen on iOS devices, you can use the Safari browser to play the video and then lock your screen. The video will continue playing, and you will see the video controls on your lock screen. However, this workaround may not be as seamless as the built-in feature on Android devices, and it may also have some limitations. For example, you may not be able to control the video playback from the lock screen, and you may need to unlock your device to adjust the video settings. It’s worth noting that playing YouTube videos on your lock screen can be convenient, but it may also consume more battery power and data, so it’s essential to be mindful of your device’s resources when using this feature.
How do I minimize the YouTube app while playing a video?
Minimizing the YouTube app while playing a video is a useful feature that allows you to use other apps while continuing to play the video. On Android devices, you can minimize the YouTube app by tapping on the “Home” button or swiping up from the bottom of the screen. The video will continue playing in a small window, and you can move it around the screen to position it wherever you want. You can also resize the window by dragging the edges. On iOS devices, you can minimize the YouTube app by swiping up from the bottom of the screen or double-tapping the “Home” button.
To minimize the YouTube app on iOS devices, you need to use the “Picture-in-Picture” mode, which is available on iOS 14 and later versions. To enable Picture-in-Picture mode, start playing a video on the YouTube app, then swipe up from the bottom of the screen or press the “Home” button. The video will continue playing in a small window, and you can move it around the screen to position it wherever you want. You can also resize the window by dragging the edges. Note that Picture-in-Picture mode may not work for all types of content, such as live streams or videos with ads, and it may also have some limitations, such as not being able to control the video playback from the minimized window.
Can I play YouTube videos while using other apps on my computer?
Playing YouTube videos while using other apps on your computer is possible, and it’s a useful feature that allows you to multitask. You can play YouTube videos in a separate window or tab while using other apps, such as browsing the web, checking email, or working on a document. To play YouTube videos while using other apps, simply open the YouTube website in a web browser, such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Safari, and start playing a video. You can then minimize the browser window or move it to the side of the screen to continue playing the video while using other apps.
To play YouTube videos in the background while using other apps on your computer, you can use a feature called “Pop-out player” or “Picture-in-Picture” mode, which is available on some web browsers. For example, Google Chrome has a built-in feature called “Picture-in-Picture” mode that allows you to play YouTube videos in a small window while using other apps. To enable Picture-in-Picture mode, start playing a video on the YouTube website, then right-click on the video and select “Picture-in-Picture” mode. The video will continue playing in a small window, and you can move it around the screen to position it wherever you want. You can also resize the window by dragging the edges.
Are there any limitations to playing YouTube videos while using other apps?
There are some limitations to playing YouTube videos while using other apps, depending on the device and the YouTube app version you are using. For example, on Android devices, background play is only available for YouTube Premium subscribers, and it may not work for all types of content, such as live streams or videos with ads. On iOS devices, Picture-in-Picture mode may not work for all types of content, and it may also have some limitations, such as not being able to control the video playback from the minimized window. Additionally, playing YouTube videos while using other apps can consume more battery power and data, so it’s essential to be mindful of your device’s resources when using this feature.
Another limitation to playing YouTube videos while using other apps is that it may not be available in all regions or countries due to licensing restrictions. For example, some videos may not be available for playback in certain countries due to copyright or licensing issues. Additionally, some apps may not be compatible with YouTube’s background play or Picture-in-Picture mode, which can limit the functionality of these features. It’s essential to check the YouTube app’s settings and the device’s capabilities to determine the limitations of playing YouTube videos while using other apps. By understanding these limitations, you can use these features more effectively and enjoy a better viewing experience.