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Playing YouTube Music on the background on Android can enhance your music listening experience by allowing you to multitask or use other apps while enjoying your favorite tunes. However, by default, YouTube Music does not support background playback, which means the music will stop as soon as you exit the app or lock your device. Fortunately, there are several methods available to overcome this limitation and keep the music playing in the background. In this blog post, we will explore various techniques to enable background playback for YouTube Music on Android.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
To play YouTube Music in the background on your Android device, you will need:
1. An Android smartphone or tablet running the YouTube Music app.
2. Stable internet connection to stream the music.
3. Basic knowledge of your device’s settings and features.
4. The willingness to explore alternative methods to achieve background playback.
What Requires Your Focus?
To enable background playback for YouTube Music on Android, you need to focus on the following aspects:
1. Finding the right method that suits your preferences and device capabilities.
2. Understanding the steps involved in each method and following them carefully.
3. Being open to trying out different methods if the first one doesn’t work as expected.
4. Adjusting your device settings or installing additional apps, if necessary, to ensure smooth background playback.
Different Methods to Play YouTube Music on The Background on Android
Method 1: Using YouTube Premium
To enjoy background playback on YouTube Music, one of the easiest methods is by subscribing to YouTube Premium. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Open the YouTube Music app on your Android device.
2. Tap on your profile picture or initials located at the top right corner of the screen.
3. From the menu that appears, select "Get YouTube Premium."
4. Follow the prompts to sign up for YouTube Premium subscription.
5. Once you have subscribed, you can exit the YouTube Music app, and the music will continue playing in the background.
6. To control playback, you can use the notification bar or the lock screen controls.
Pros:
– Background playback is built-in and requires no additional setup.
– YouTube Premium offers ad-free access to YouTube Music and other benefits.
– You can download music for offline listening.
Cons:
– Requires a monthly subscription for YouTube Premium.
– May not be an ideal option for those who only want background playback for YouTube Music.
Method 2: Using a Web Browser
If you prefer not to subscribe to YouTube Premium, you can utilize a web browser on your Android device to achieve background playback. Follow these steps:
1. Open your preferred web browser on your Android device (e.g., Google Chrome, Firefox).
2. Navigate to the YouTube website.
3. In the browser settings, enable "Desktop site" or "Request desktop site" option.
4. Search for the desired music video or playlist in the desktop version of YouTube.
5. Start playing the video or playlist, and then exit the browser.
6. The audio will continue playing in the background, allowing you to enjoy YouTube Music while using other apps.
Pros:
– No need for a YouTube Premium subscription.
– Works with any web browser on Android.
– Provides background playback for YouTube Music without additional apps.
Cons:
– Audio playback quality may be slightly reduced compared to the official YouTube Music app.
– You must keep the web browser open and active in the background, which could consume more battery.
Method 3: Using Third-Party Apps
Another way to play YouTube Music in the background on Android is by using third-party apps specifically designed for this purpose. These apps allow you to listen to YouTube content while multitasking. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Install a reputable third-party app that supports background playback for YouTube Music, such as "NewPipe" or "YouTube Vanced."
2. Launch the third-party app on your Android device.
3. Search for the desired music video or playlist within the app.
4. Start playing the music, and then exit the app.
5. The audio will continue playing in the background, giving you background playback capabilities.
Pros:
– Provides background playback without the need for a YouTube Premium subscription.
– Some third-party apps offer additional features not available in the official YouTube Music app.
– Allows customization options and enhanced control over playback.
Cons:
– Third-party apps may not be available on the official app store and require sideloading.
– Potential security risks associated with downloading apps from unknown sources.
– Updates and support for third-party apps may not be as reliable as official apps.
Method 4: Using Floating Apps
Floating apps allow you to create floating windows on your Android device, which can be used to play YouTube Music videos in the background while using other apps. Here’s how you can utilize floating apps for background playback:
1. Install a floating app from the Google Play Store, such as "Floating Tube" or "Floating Player."
2. Open the floating app and grant the necessary permissions.
3. Search for the desired music video or playlist within the floating app.
4. Start playing the music and minimize the app.
5. The YouTube Music video will float on top of other apps, allowing you to listen to the audio while multitasking.
Pros:
– Provides a unique and versatile solution for background playback.
– Allows you to resize and reposition the floating window according to your preferences.
– Works well for multitasking and keeping YouTube Music visible while using other apps.
Cons:
– Requires installing additional apps on your device.
– Some floating apps may have limited functionality or compatibility issues with certain Android devices.
– May consume more system resources, including battery and RAM.
Why Can’t I Play YouTube Music on The Background on Android?
There are a few reasons why you can’t play YouTube Music in the background on Android by default. These include:
1. YouTube Music’s terms of service: YouTube Music restricts background playback to encourage users to subscribe to their premium service, YouTube Premium.
2. Revenue from ads: YouTube Music generates revenue through advertisements, and background playback could reduce ad exposure.
3. Copyright concerns: Background playback may allow users to download music or videos without proper authorization, raising copyright issues.
Q1: How can I fix background playback limitations on YouTube Music?
A: While YouTube Music doesn’t officially support background playback on Android, you can use alternative methods like subscribing to YouTube Premium, using a web browser with the desktop site, or relying on third-party apps to achieve background playback.
Q2: Is it possible to have background playback on YouTube Music without paying?
A: Yes, you can use methods like using a web browser or utilizing certain third-party apps to achieve background playback without a YouTube Premium subscription. However, these methods might come with some limitations and trade-offs.
Q3: Can I use these methods on other platforms, like iOS?
A: Some of the methods discussed in this blog post are applicable to other platforms like iOS. However, due to variations in software and app availability, the steps and specific apps required may differ.
Q4: Are third-party apps safe to use?
A: It is essential to exercise caution when using third-party apps, as not all apps available outside of the official app stores are safe and reliable. Stick to well-known and reputable third-party apps to minimize security risks.
Q5: Can I use these methods to download YouTube Music?
A: No, the methods discussed in this blog post focus on enabling background playback for YouTube Music. Downloading music from YouTube, even for personal use, may violate copyright laws.
Implications and Recommendations
1. Consider your usage patterns: If you often listen to YouTube Music in the background and value additional features like ad-free access and offline downloads, subscribing to YouTube Premium may be worth the investment.
2. Keep your device secure: When using third-party apps or accessing YouTube via a web browser, be cautious about the sources you download from and ensure your device’s security settings are enabled.
3. Stay up to date: As technology and apps continue to evolve, new methods and apps for enabling background playback may emerge. Stay informed about the latest developments to make the most of your YouTube Music experience.
4. Support artists and creators: While background playback is convenient, remember that creators rely on ad revenue and subscriptions for their work. If you enjoy their content, consider supporting them through official channels whenever possible.
5 FAQs about Playing YouTube Music on The Background on Android
Q1: Can I use YouTube Music in the background while using other apps?
A:
By default, YouTube Music does not support background playback on Android, but there are alternative methods to achieve this functionality, as discussed in this blog post.
Q2: How much does YouTube Premium cost?
A:
The cost of YouTube Premium varies depending on your country and the subscription plan you choose. You can check the exact pricing details on YouTube’s official website.
Q3: What are the benefits of subscribing to YouTube Premium?
A:
YouTube Premium offers various benefits, including background playback, ad-free access, offline downloads, and access to YouTube Originals content.
Q4: Are there any free alternatives to achieve background playback for YouTube Music?
A:
Yes, you can use methods like using a web browser with the desktop site or utilizing certain third-party apps to achieve background playback without a YouTube Premium subscription.
Q5: Can I download YouTube Music for offline listening?
A:
Yes, YouTube Premium subscription allows you to download music for offline listening within the YouTube Music app.
Final Words
By utilizing the methods discussed in this blog post, you can overcome the limitations of YouTube Music and enjoy seamless background playback on your Android device. Whether you choose to subscribe to YouTube Premium, use a web browser, or rely on third-party apps, background playback enhances your music listening experience by allowing you to multitask and enjoy your favorite tunes on the go. Experiment with these techniques, keep an eye out for updates and new developments, and make the most of your YouTube Music journey.