In today’s fast-paced digital world, multitasking has become an essential skill. We all love enjoying our favorite YouTube videos, but there are times when we want to listen to the audio in the background while performing other tasks on our Samsung devices. Whether you’re cooking, working, or chilling with friends, knowing how to play YouTube videos in the background can vastly enhance your experience. This comprehensive guide will delve into various methods to listen to YouTube in the background on your Samsung device. So, let’s get started!
Why Listen to YouTube Videos in the Background?
Listening to YouTube videos in the background offers several benefits:
Multitasking: You can engage in other activities (like working or studying) while still enjoying your favorite content.
Podcasts and Music: Many users utilize YouTube for music or podcasts, and being able to listen without keeping the app open is incredibly convenient.
Reduced Screen Time: Listening in the background can help reduce screen time, which is beneficial for your eyes and overall well-being.
Now that we understand the advantages, let’s explore the methods to make this happen on Samsung devices.
Method 1: Using YouTube Premium
One of the simplest and most reliable ways to listen to YouTube in the background is by subscribing to YouTube Premium. This subscription allows users to access a range of features, including:
- Background Play: You can continue listening to videos even when you switch applications or turn off your screen.
- Ad-Free Experience: Enjoy your videos without interruptions caused by ads.
- Offline Downloads: Download videos to watch later without an internet connection.
To enable background play with YouTube Premium, follow these steps:
How to Subscribe to YouTube Premium
- Open the YouTube app on your Samsung device.
- Tap on your profile picture in the top right corner.
- Select “Get YouTube Premium.”
- Follow the prompts to subscribe.
Enabling Background Play
- Open the YouTube app.
- Go to Settings by tapping your profile picture.
- Select “Background & Downloads.”
- Toggle on “Background Play” to allow videos to continue playing in the background.
Method 2: Using the Samsung Internet Browser
If you’re not interested in a YouTube Premium subscription, you still have options! The Samsung Internet Browser allows users to play YouTube videos with the screen off. Here’s how:
How to Use the Samsung Internet Browser for Background Playback
- Open the Samsung Internet Browser on your device.
- Visit the YouTube website by entering “www.youtube.com” in the address bar.
- Find the video you want to listen to and start playing it.
- Tap the three vertical dots in the upper right corner to enter “Desktop Site” mode. This will switch the view to the desktop version of YouTube.
- Press the Home button or swipe up to go to your home screen. You’ll see a notification that the video is still playing in the background.
Enabling Background Playback in Samsung Browser
- Make sure you are still using the desktop version of the site.
- Pull down your notification panel, and you should see media controls where you can pause or skip.
Method 3: Third-Party Apps
Various third-party applications support background playback of YouTube videos. However, when using third-party apps, it’s crucial to be cautious regarding privacy and data security. One of the most popular options is:
YouTube Vanced
YouTube Vanced is a widely-acclaimed third-party application that provides various features, including background playback without a subscription. Keep in mind that this app is not available on the Google Play Store, so you’ll need to download it from a trusted source.
Steps to Install YouTube Vanced
- Visit the official YouTube Vanced website.
- Download the appropriate APK file for your Samsung device.
- Before installing, navigate to Settings > Biometrics and Security > Install Unknown Apps, and allow your browser to install unknown apps.
- Open the APK file and follow the installation instructions.
- After installation, open YouTube Vanced, sign in with your Google account, and enjoy enhanced features, including background playback.
Other Third-Party Apps
Besides YouTube Vanced, several other apps facilitate background listening to YouTube videos, like:
- NewPipe: An open-source app that allows you to download videos and listen to them in the background.
- YT3 Music Downloader: A music-focused app to download and play YouTube audio in the background.
Considerations When Using Third-Party Apps
- Always download apps from reputable sites to protect your device from malware.
- Check user reviews and ratings before installing any app.
Method 4: Split-Screen Multitasking on Samsung Devices
Samsung devices come loaded with a fantastic feature—Split-Screen Multitasking. This feature enables you to run two applications simultaneously, allowing audio from a YouTube video to play while using another app.
How to Use Split-Screen Multitasking
- Open the YouTube app and start playing your desired video.
- Tap the Recent Apps button (usually a square or three vertical lines).
- Find and long-press the YouTube app icon.
- Choose “Open in Split-Screen View.”
- Select the second app (such as Notes or Browser) from your recent apps or app list.
Now you can continue listening to the YouTube audio while checking your messages or searching for information on the web!
Method 5: Using Google Assistant or Bixby
If you own a Samsung device, chances are you may not be utilizing Google Assistant or Bixby to its full potential. Both voice assistants can play YouTube videos while allowing for background playback.
How to Use Google Assistant for Background Playback
- Activate Google Assistant by saying “Hey Google” or long-pressing the home button.
- Say “Play on YouTube.”
- The video will start playing, and you can navigate away from the app, continuing to listen.
Similarly, for Bixby:
Using Bixby for Background Playback
- Activate Bixby by saying “Hi Bixby” or pressing the Bixby button.
- Command Bixby to play a specific video or playlist on YouTube.
- Bixby will handle your request, allowing you to do other tasks.
Maximizing Your Listening Experience
Now that you know how to listen to YouTube in the background on your Samsung device, here are some tips for maximizing your experience:
Optimize Your Settings
For a seamless experience, adjust the following settings:
- Go to Settings > Sound & Vibration, and ensure that your media volume is set at an optimal level.
- Turn on Battery Saver mode to prolong listening during long sessions.
Create Playlists
To enjoy continuous listening, create playlists within the YouTube app. This keeps your audio flowing without needing to constantly select new videos.
Conclusion
Listening to YouTube in the background on Samsung devices doesn’t need to be a hassle. With options ranging from YouTube Premium to the browser, third-party apps, split-screen multitasking, and voice commands via assistants like Google Assistant and Bixby, you have ample ways to enjoy uninterrupted audio. By adopting these methods, you’ll find your Samsung experience enriched, allowing you to multitask effectively while enjoying your favorite content.
Whether you’re indulging in podcasts, music, or informative videos, knowing these tips will transform your listening experience into something extraordinary. So, explore these methods, personalize your settings, and elevate your engagement with YouTube on your Samsung device!
What is background listening on YouTube?
Background listening on YouTube allows users to play videos while using other apps or when their device screen is turned off. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who wish to enjoy music, podcasts, or other audio content on YouTube without needing to keep the app open.
By enabling background listening, users can maximize their device’s functionality, allowing them to multitask effectively. This is especially useful for individuals who want to listen to tutorials, interviews, or livestreams without being tethered to the app.
Do I need a YouTube Premium subscription to listen in the background on Samsung devices?
Yes, listening to YouTube content in the background generally requires a YouTube Premium subscription. This service offers several benefits, including ad-free viewing, the ability to download videos for offline use, and, crucially, background listening.
Without a premium subscription, YouTube will stop playing content as soon as you navigate away from the app or lock your device. For frequent users, upgrading to YouTube Premium can significantly enhance the overall experience.
How can I activate background listening on my Samsung device?
To activate background listening on your Samsung device, first ensure you have the YouTube app installed and updated to the latest version. Then, log in to your YouTube Premium account. Once you’re signed in, simply play a video, and you can press the home button or swipe up to access other apps while the audio continues playing in the background.
Keep in mind that your device settings may need to allow background app activity. Go to your device settings, find the YouTube app, and ensure that background activity is enabled, allowing seamless audio playback even when you navigate away from the app.
What should I do if YouTube stops playing in the background?
If you experience issues where YouTube stops playing audio in the background, first check if you are logged into your YouTube Premium account. If you are logged in but still facing problems, consider restarting the app or your device, as this can often resolve temporary glitches.
Additionally, ensure that your app is up to date by checking the Google Play Store for any available updates. If the problem persists, you might also try clearing the cache of the YouTube app, which can help with performance issues and background playback functionality.
Can I use YouTube Music instead for background listening?
Yes, you can use YouTube Music for background listening, and it is a great alternative if you’re focusing primarily on music content. YouTube Music also requires a Premium subscription for background play, offering an extensive library tailored specifically for music lovers.
Using YouTube Music allows seamless background playback while you perform other tasks on your Samsung device. This can be particularly convenient for users who prefer a more music-focused experience without the distractions of video content.
Are there any third-party apps that allow background listening on YouTube?
While there are a few third-party apps and browser extensions that claim to enable background listening on YouTube, they often come with limitations and may not be reliable. Many of these applications might not have official support, and using them could pose security risks to your personal information or device.
For the best experience that is both legal and stable, it is recommended to stick with the official YouTube app and consider a YouTube Premium subscription. This way, you are guaranteed the features and quality of service you’ve paid for, along with regular updates and support.
Is there a way to listen to playlists in the background?
Yes, once you are subscribed to YouTube Premium, you can easily listen to playlists in the background. Simply create or select a playlist from your library and start playing it within the YouTube app. Once the audio begins, you can navigate away from the app or lock your device, and the music will continue without interruption.
This feature is particularly useful for long listening sessions, as it allows you to enjoy continuous audio without needing to manually select the next video. You can also explore other content within the app or utilize your device for other tasks while your playlist plays in the background.