Can YouTube Play in the Background on iOS: A Comprehensive Guide

Streaming audio or playing YouTube videos in the background on iOS can be a valuable feature for productivity and multitasking. However, achieving background playback on YouTube for iOS users is not straightforward and comes with certain limitations. This guide explores the current status of background playback on YouTube for iOS and provides solutions for those willing to opt for a paid subscription.

Current Limitations on iOS

Currently, native YouTube on iOS does not support playing videos in the background or as an audio stream. This limitation is imposed by the platform's design principles, which prioritize user engagement and advertising revenue. If you need to listen to YouTube videos without the video being visible, you have a few options, but they often require a Premium subscription.

Using YouTube Premium for Background Playback

YouTube Premium offers a unique feature that allows users to play videos in the background and even in a minimalist "Mini Player" mode on iOS devices. This means you can have a video playing in the background while you use other apps on your phone. Here’s how you can set it up:

Open Safari and go to YouTube: Start by opening the default browser on your iOS device, Safari. Search for the desired video: Enter the video URL or search for the video you want to play in the background. Request desktop site: Tap the Aa icon in the address/search bar, then select "Request Desktop Site" from the drop-down menu. Play the video: Hit play on your video. You can now use other apps on your phone while the video plays in the background.

While this setup is functional, it is worth noting that it may not always work perfectly due to technical glitches. Additionally, the Mini Player mode is not fully optimised for background playback, but it can be used as a workaround.

Installing YouTube Desktop App for Background Playback

If you need a more reliable way to play YouTube videos in the background, consider using the YouTube Desktop app. This app can be installed on your iOS device and provides a more stable experience for background playback.

Download the YouTube Desktop app: Download and install the YouTube Desktop app from the App Store. Connect to your PC: Connect your iOS device to a Windows or Mac computer via a USB cable. Play the video: Once connected, you can use the YouTube Desktop app to play videos in the background. This method is reliable and works seamlessly on laptop or desktop devices.

Alternative Methods for Background Playback

For those who cannot afford a YouTube Premium subscription or do not want to use the desktop app, there are a few alternative methods:

Use a second device: If you have a second device (a tablet or another phone), you can play the video on that device while using your main device for other tasks. Use a third-party app: Some third-party apps like "Web Player" or "YouTube Browser" can be used to play YouTube videos in the background, but these methods may not always work as smoothly as the official YouTube app.

Conclusion

In summary, while the official YouTube app on iOS does not support background playback, YouTube Premium offers a solution for those who need this feature. Additionally, using the YouTube Desktop app or a second device can provide alternative methods for background playback. The future of background playback on iOS continues to evolve, and with continued advancements, we may see more seamless and user-friendly solutions.