Background play is one of YouTube Premium's most requested features. It lets audio continue when you switch apps or lock your screen – perfect for music, podcasts, and lectures. Here's how to get it for free.
What is YouTube Background Play?
Normally, YouTube stops playing the moment you leave the app or turn off your screen. Background play keeps the audio running, letting you:
- Listen to music while using other apps
- Play podcasts with screen locked (save battery)
- Multitask while watching tutorials
- Use your phone normally while audio continues
Android Methods
Method 1: YouTube Mod APK (Easiest)
Modified YouTube apps have background play enabled by default. Simply install and it works.
- Download YouTube Premium Mod APK
- Uninstall official YouTube (if installed)
- Install the mod APK
- Background play works automatically
Method 2: Firefox Browser Trick
Free workaround using Firefox Mobile:
- Install Firefox from Play Store
- Go to youtube.com (not the app)
- Request Desktop Site from menu
- Start playing a video
- Exit Firefox – audio continues in notification
Method 3: NewPipe App
Open-source YouTube client with background play built-in. Download from F-Droid or GitHub.
iPhone/iOS Methods
Method 1: Safari Picture-in-Picture
- Open youtube.com in Safari
- Request Desktop Site
- Play a video
- Go fullscreen, then swipe home
- Video continues in PiP window
- Minimize PiP for audio only
Method 2: Brave Browser
Similar to Safari method but more reliable:
- Install Brave browser
- Go to youtube.com
- Play video, exit browser
- Resume from Control Center
Why Does YouTube Limit This?
Background play is disabled on free YouTube to push users toward Premium subscriptions. It's a software restriction, not a technical limitation – which is why these workarounds exist.