For many Android users, listening to YouTube audio with the screen off is a highly sought-after feature. It saves battery life and allows for a more convenient listening experience while multitasking or doing other activities. This guide will explore various methods to achieve this, addressing common questions and concerns along the way.
How to Play YouTube with the Screen Off on Android?
There's no single, built-in setting in the standard YouTube app to enable audio playback with the screen off. However, several workarounds exist, depending on your subscription status and willingness to use third-party apps.
Method 1: YouTube Premium
The most straightforward method is subscribing to YouTube Premium. This paid subscription unlocks several features, including background playback and ad-free viewing. With a Premium subscription, you can minimize the YouTube app or even turn off your screen, and the audio will continue playing. This is arguably the most seamless and reliable option.
Method 2: Using a Third-Party App
Numerous third-party apps in the Google Play Store claim to enable YouTube background playback. However, proceed with caution. Many of these apps are unreliable, may contain malware, or violate YouTube's terms of service. Thoroughly research any app before installing it, checking user reviews and ratings carefully. We strongly recommend against using unverified apps to avoid potential security risks.
Method 3: Screen-Off Timer (Limited Functionality)
Some Android phones offer a screen-off timer feature within their notification settings. You could start a YouTube video, then enable this timer to keep the screen on for a limited duration before it automatically turns off. This is not a true background playback solution but might work for short audio clips.
Can I Play YouTube Music with Screen Off?
Yes, playing YouTube Music with the screen off is generally easier than with regular YouTube videos. The YouTube Music app is designed to function in the background. Even without a YouTube Premium subscription, YouTube Music allows background playback. Therefore, you can lock your phone or turn off the screen, and the audio will continue to play.
Does YouTube Background Play Drain Battery?
Yes, playing audio in the background will consume battery power, although usually less than video playback with the screen on. The exact battery drain depends on several factors: your phone's battery health, the audio quality settings in YouTube, and background processes running simultaneously on your phone.
How Can I Fix YouTube Not Playing in the Background on Android?
If you have a Premium subscription and are still facing background playback issues, try these troubleshooting steps:
- Check your internet connection: A poor connection can interrupt background playback.
- Restart your phone: A simple restart often resolves temporary software glitches.
- Update the YouTube app: Ensure you're using the latest version of the YouTube app.
- Clear the YouTube app cache and data: This can resolve some storage-related issues.
- Check your phone's battery optimization settings: Make sure YouTube is excluded from any battery optimization features that might be restricting background activity.
What's the Best Way to Listen to YouTube Audio Without the Screen On?
The best method depends on your priorities. For a seamless and reliable solution, YouTube Premium is the clear winner. If you're hesitant to pay for a subscription, be extremely cautious when using third-party apps. Always prioritize security and choose well-reviewed apps from reputable developers.
By understanding the available methods and their associated limitations, you can choose the most suitable approach for enjoying YouTube audio with your screen off on Android. Remember to prioritize your device's security and avoid using untrusted applications.
