YouTube has become a cornerstone of our daily entertainment and information consumption, offering everything from music videos to educational content. However, one common frustration that many users face is the ability to keep YouTube playing in the background while using their Samsung devices for other tasks. This article will explore various methods to enable background playback on YouTube, ensuring that you get the most out of your viewing experience while multitasking effectively.
Understanding Background Playback on YouTube
Background playback is a feature that allows users to continue listening to audio or watching a video while using other apps or when the screen is off. This feature is highly sought after by users who want to enjoy music playlists, podcasts, or long-form video content without being tethered to the YouTube app. However, YouTube limits this feature primarily to its premium subscribers. Luckily, there are workarounds available for Samsung users that can facilitate background playback.
The Challenge of YouTube Background Playback
YouTube, in its free version, does not allow background playback by default. When you switch to another application or lock your screen, the video will stop playing. For Samsung users, this often presents a hinderance, particularly when trying to enjoy content while using other functionalities on their devices. Fortunately, several methods allow you to activate this feature effectively.
Method 1: Using YouTube Premium
One of the most straightforward ways to enable background playback is by subscribing to YouTube Premium. This is a paid service, but it comes with several perks, including:
- Ad-free viewing: No more interruptions from ads.
- Offline downloads: Watch videos without the need for an internet connection.
- YouTube Music: Access to a premium music streaming experience.
To enable background playback with a YouTube Premium subscription on your Samsung device, follow these steps:
- Open the YouTube app on your Samsung device.
- Sign in to your YouTube Premium account.
- Play the video of your choice.
- Press the home button or swipe up to access the home screen. The video will continue to play in the background.
Method 2: Using Chrome Browser
If you’re not ready to commit to a YouTube Premium subscription, you can use the Google Chrome browser to enable background playback. Here are the steps:
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Open Google Chrome: Launch the Chrome browser on your Samsung device.
- Visit YouTube: Type the URL ‘www.youtube.com’ into the address bar.
- Request Desktop Site: Tap the three-dot menu in the upper right corner and select “Request desktop site.” This will bring up the desktop version of YouTube.
- Play Your Video: Find the video you want to watch and start playing it.
- Switch to Home Screen: Press the home button. The video will stop, but you can access the notification shade.
- Resume Playback: Pull down the notification shade. You should see a media player widget with your video. Tap play to continue playback in the background.
Additional Methods for Samsung Users
Aside from using YouTube Premium or the Chrome browser, there are alternative methods that Samsung users can utilize to enable background playback.
Method 3: Utilizing Third-party Apps
Several third-party applications can serve as effective alternatives for playing YouTube videos in the background. Some applications to consider are:
- NewPipe: A popular open-source YouTube client that allows background playback.
- VLC Media Player: Supports streaming from various sources, including YouTube, with background playback features.
Each of these apps can be downloaded from their respective websites or trusted app stores. After installation, follow the on-screen instructions to set them up for the best background playback experience.
Method 4: Split Screen Mode
Samsung devices often come equipped with a Split Screen feature, allowing you to use two apps simultaneously. This can be advantageous for multitasking while enjoying YouTube content.
How to Enable Split Screen Mode:
- Open YouTube: Start playing a video in the YouTube app.
- Access Recent Apps: Tap the recent apps button to see currently running applications.
- Select the YouTube App: Tap and hold the YouTube app icon.
- Choose Split Screen Option: From the menu that appears, select “Open in split screen.”
- Select Another App: Choose an app to use in conjunction with YouTube.
With Split Screen enabled, you can browse other applications while continuing to enjoy your video.
Tips for Optimizing Background Playback Experience
To maximize your background playback experience on your Samsung device, consider the following tips:
Tip 1: Manage Your Device Settings
Ensure that your device settings allow apps to run in the background. Navigate to the Settings app, select Apps, find YouTube, and check for restrictions under Battery or App Permissions.
Tip 2: Optimize Battery Life
When using background playback, keeping an eye on your battery usage is crucial. Background playback can drain your battery faster, so it may be beneficial to adjust screen brightness, close unnecessary apps, and enable battery saver mode while listening.
Conclusion
Keeping YouTube playing in the background on your Samsung device is not only feasible but can also be a terrific enhancement for your multitasking capabilities. Whether you choose to go for YouTube Premium, use the Chrome browser, or explore third-party applications, multiple options exist to suit your needs.
In a world where distractions are abundant and time is precious, mastering the art of background playback allows you to make the most out of your device while continuing to enjoy your favorite videos. With the tips and methods shared in this article, you can ensure that your YouTube experience is seamless and uninterrupted, allowing for a richer, more enjoyable time with the content you love.
By implementing these strategies, you can enjoy a more dynamic and engaged approach to consuming YouTube content on your Samsung device while juggling your busy lifestyle.
1. How can I enable background playback on YouTube for my Samsung device?
To enable background playback on YouTube for your Samsung device, you must first ensure that you have the YouTube app installed and updated to the latest version. After that, you can either subscribe to YouTube Premium, which directly allows background playback, or use the web browser workaround. If you’re opting for YouTube Premium, simply sign in to your account and navigate to the settings to activate background playback.
Alternatively, if you don’t wish to pay for a subscription, you can use Samsung’s internet browser. Open the YouTube website and play the desired video. Once it starts, minimize the browser, and playback should continue as expected. For better results, you might want to enable desktop mode in your browser settings before starting the video.
2. Is YouTube Premium necessary for background playback?
YouTube Premium is not strictly necessary for background playback on Samsung devices, but it does provide a seamless and fully supported experience. With a YouTube Premium subscription, you can easily keep your videos playing in the background while using other applications or when your screen is off. This feature enhances your content consumption without interruptions and is specifically designed to be user-friendly.
If you prefer not to subscribe, there are alternatives like web browsers that allow background playback for free. However, these methods may not be as reliable as the Premium version and may involve extra steps. Ultimately, the choice between using YouTube Premium and exploring free methods will depend on how often you want to enjoy uninterrupted playback.
3. What should I do if background playback stops working on my Samsung device?
If background playback stops working on your Samsung device, the first step is to check if your YouTube app is updated to the latest version. An outdated app could lead to various functionalities failing, including background playback. You can update the app through the Google Play Store by searching for YouTube and clicking on the update button if it’s available.
Another reason for playback issues could be related to your device’s settings. Ensure that battery-saving modes or data restriction settings are not adversely affecting the app. You can also try clearing the app’s cache or restarting your device, as these simple troubleshooting steps often resolve common issues related to app performance.
4. Can I use background playback while using other apps?
Yes, one of the key benefits of enabling background playback on YouTube is that it allows you to use other apps simultaneously on your Samsung device. Once you start playing music or video from YouTube and minimize the app or switch to another application, the audio will continue to play in the background. This feature is particularly advantageous for multitasking, whether you’re browsing the web or messaging friends.
To experience this without interruptions, ensure that your phone’s settings allow background data for the YouTube app. This option can usually be found under the app settings in your device’s settings menu. With this configured, you can freely enjoy your media and stay productive at the same time.
5. Will using background playback drain my battery quickly?
Using background playback on YouTube can consume battery power, but the extent to which it drains your battery will depend on several factors. Generally, playing audio in the background is less taxing on your device compared to watching videos in the foreground. However, continuous use over long periods can still result in increased battery consumption.
To mitigate battery drain, you can activate power-saving mode on your Samsung device while using YouTube in the background. Additionally, lowering your screen brightness and closing unnecessary background apps can also help extend battery life. Monitoring your battery settings regularly can give you insights into which apps are utilizing the most power.
6. Are there alternative apps for background playback apart from YouTube?
Yes, there are several alternative apps you can use for background playback if you’re looking for more options beyond YouTube. Other streaming platforms, such as Spotify, SoundCloud, and Apple Music, offer similar features, allowing users to enjoy audio content while multitasking on their devices. Many of these services also have free versions, although some features may be restricted unless you opt for a premium subscription.
Some users might also consider third-party apps specifically designed for background playback of YouTube content. However, it’s important to exercise caution while using third-party applications, ensuring that they respect your privacy and are safe to download. Always check user reviews and ratings to find reliable alternatives that enhance your media experience without compromising your device’s security.