In today’s fast-paced digital era, the ability to multitask has become essential. For many users, listening to music or podcasts while engaging in other activities is a common practice. One of the most popular platforms for audio and video is YouTube. However, playing YouTube videos in the background while using other apps can be a challenge, especially on Samsung devices. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to effectively play the YouTube app in the background on your Samsung device, presenting various methods to help you get the most out of your YouTube experience.
Why Play YouTube in the Background?
Playing YouTube in the background allows users to enjoy their favorite content without interruption. This can be especially useful for those who want to listen to music, tutorials, or lectures while working or browsing other apps. Here are some common reasons why users prefer background playback:
- Multitasking: You can access other applications while enjoying audio from YouTube.
- Improved Battery Life: Instead of having the screen always on, audio will help conserve energy.
Methods to Play YouTube in the Background on Samsung Devices
Samsung devices offer several methods to enable background playback on YouTube. Depending on your preferences and usage, these methods can enhance your overall experience. Let’s explore the most effective ways to achieve this.
Method 1: YouTube Premium Subscription
One of the simplest and most effective ways to play YouTube videos in the background is by subscribing to YouTube Premium. This subscription service allows users to enjoy ad-free videos, offline viewing, and background playback. Here’s how you can set it up:
Steps to Subscribe to YouTube Premium
- Open the YouTube App: Launch the app on your Samsung device.
- Tap on your Profile Icon: Located in the top right corner of the screen.
- Select “Get YouTube Premium”: Follow the prompts to choose your subscription plan.
- Complete the Payment Process: Once you’ve selected a plan, complete your payment information.
- Enjoy YouTube in the Background: After subscribing, simply play a video and press the home button to continue listening.
Method 2: Using the Samsung Internet Browser
If you do not wish to subscribe to YouTube Premium, there’s another workaround using the Samsung Internet Browser. This method allows you to play videos in the background without opening the app.
Steps to Use Samsung Internet for Background Playback
- Open the Samsung Internet Browser: Launch the browser on your Samsung device.
- Visit the YouTube Website: Type in www.youtube.com and press enter.
- Play the Desired Video: Select your video to start playing it.
- Switch to Desktop Mode: Tap on the three-dot menu in the top right corner and check the “Desktop site” option. This is crucial for enabling background playback.
- Minimize the Browser: Press the home button to minimize. The video should continue to play in the background.
Method 3: Third-Party Apps
Several third-party applications are available that enable background playback of YouTube videos on Samsung devices. These applications typically offer additional features that enhance user experience.
Popular Third-Party Apps for Background Playback
- NewPipe: An open-source app with no ads that allows you to play YouTube videos in the background.
- VLC for Android: A versatile media player that supports background playback of YouTube videos by entering video URLs.
Method 4: Picture-in-Picture (PiP) Mode
If you’re running Android 8.0 (Oreo) or later, Samsung devices support Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode. This allows you to keep a small floating window of the video you are watching while navigating through other apps.
To Enable Picture-in-Picture Mode
- Go to Settings: Access your Samsung device settings.
- Select Apps: Tap on “Apps” or “Applications.”
- Find YouTube App: Scroll through the list or use the search function to locate YouTube.
- Tap on YouTube: Select it to access the app settings.
- Select “Open in Pop-up View” or “Picture-in-Picture”: Enable the feature to allow YouTube to play in a small window.
- Play the Video: Start playing a video, then press the home button to view the video in PiP mode.
Tips for Enhanced Background Playback Experience
When playing YouTube in the background, consider the following tips to enhance your experience:
Adjust Your App Settings
- Audio Quality: Set your YouTube audio quality higher for better sound. Go to Settings > Video quality preferences to adjust.
- Limit Notifications: Consider using “Do Not Disturb” while listening to avoid distractions.
Manage Battery Usage
- Battery Saver Mode: Turn on battery saver mode to conserve energy while using background playback.
- Close Unused Apps: Minimizing the number of open apps can help preserve battery life during playback.
Explore YouTube Features
- Create Playlists: Organizing your favorite videos into playlists allows for continuous playback.
- Download Videos for Offline Listening: If you have YouTube Premium, download content ahead of time for offline usage.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Playing YouTube in the background may sometimes lead to issues. Here are some common problems and solutions:
Audio Stops Playing
- Ensure your YouTube app is updated to the latest version.
- Check your internet connection, as poor connectivity can cause playback interruptions.
Unable to Enable Background Playback
- If using the browser method, make sure you select “Desktop Site” each time you visit YouTube.
- For apps, verify necessary permissions are enabled in your device’s settings.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of background playback on YouTube can significantly enhance your multimedia experience, especially for Samsung users. With methods ranging from YouTube Premium to leveraging the capabilities of your browser or apps, you can enjoy your favorite content seamlessly. Embracing these techniques ensures that you can maximize your time and multitasking abilities, allowing you to stay entertained while accomplishing other tasks.
Whether you are a casual listener or a dedicated content consumer, playing YouTube in the background opens the door to a more streamlined and enjoyable user experience. Start exploring these methods today to find which suits your lifestyle best—and never miss a beat!
How can I play YouTube videos in the background on my Samsung device?
To play YouTube videos in the background on your Samsung device, you can utilize a premium subscription service like YouTube Premium. This service allows users to continue listening to videos even when the app is minimized or when the screen is turned off. After subscribing, all you have to do is open the YouTube app, play a video, and then press the home button or swipe up to minimize the app. The audio will continue playing in the background effortlessly.
If you prefer not to subscribe to YouTube Premium, there are alternative methods such as using web browsers like Google Chrome or Samsung Internet. By navigating to the YouTube website in your browser, you can request the desktop site. This often allows videos to play in the background when the browser is minimized, although functionality may vary depending on your browser and device settings.
Is there a way to listen to YouTube music without a YouTube Premium subscription?
Yes, you can listen to YouTube music without a YouTube Premium subscription by using third-party music apps or platforms that offer similar content. Many audiophile apps aggregate music videos and audio tracks, providing a background playback feature. Look for apps that include a feature to play audio when the app runs in the background. They’re often compatible with mobile devices and can help you listen to your favorite tunes.
Another option is to access YouTube through your web browser, as previously mentioned. By selecting a music video and switching to the desktop version of the site, users often find that minimizing the browser allows audio playback. However, this method may not be as reliable as a dedicated application designed for music streaming.
What settings need to be adjusted on Samsung devices for background play?
For background play to function smoothly on your Samsung device, you may need to adjust a few settings. First, ensure battery optimization is disabled for the YouTube app. Go to Settings > Apps > YouTube > Battery and choose the option that allows the app to run in the background without restrictions. This ensures that YouTube can play audio even when other tasks are happening on your device.
Additionally, check your app permissions. Go to Settings > Apps > YouTube > Permissions, and ensure that the app has the necessary permissions to run in the background without interference. These minor adjustments can enhance performance and guarantee a better experience while listening to YouTube content on the go.
Are there specific Samsung devices that support background playback better than others?
Most modern Samsung devices that run on recent Android versions are equipped to support background playback adequately. However, devices with updated software and advanced processing capabilities tend to perform better in maintaining background tasks. High-end models like the Samsung Galaxy S series and Note series usually have enhanced hardware which optimizes performance for multitasking.
While specific models do not necessarily have exclusive features for background playback, ensuring your device runs the latest software version can positively impact this functionality. Always check for system updates in your device settings to keep your Samsung device in top shape for a seamless media experience.
Can I play YouTube content in the background on tablets and smartwatches?
Yes, you can play YouTube content in the background on Samsung tablets as well as smartwatches that support it. For tablets, the same method applies as smartphones. If the tablet has the YouTube app, subscribing to YouTube Premium allows you to enjoy uninterrupted background audio. You can also use web browsers like the ones mentioned before to achieve similar results.
As for smartwatches, the functionality may vary significantly depending on the watch model and the operating system it uses. Samsung smartwatches typically offer music or media control features, but dedicated YouTube support is less common. Always check for compatibility and installation options when using smartwatches to access YouTube content.
What should I do if background playback doesn’t work as expected?
If background playback isn’t functioning as expected on your Samsung device, it’s advisable to first exit and reopen the YouTube app to reset the session. Sometimes, a simple refresh can fix the issue. Also, ensure that your device’s operating system and the YouTube app are updated to their latest versions, as updates often contain important bug fixes and improvements.
If the problem persists, you can clear the app’s cache and data. Navigate to Settings > Apps > YouTube, and under Storage, you’ll find options to clear cache and data. Just be aware that clearing data will log you out and reset your settings, so be prepared to sign back in and customize your app preferences afterward.