How to Watch YouTube While on Another Tab: A Comprehensive Guide

Multitasking is a way of life in today’s fast-paced world. Whether you’re working on a crucial document, browsing social media, or just need to keep an eye on something else, being able to watch YouTube videos while doing other things on your computer or phone can be a game-changer. This guide provides a thorough breakdown of all the ways you can enjoy YouTube content while seamlessly using other applications or browsing other websites. Let’s dive in!

Why Watch YouTube While on Another Tab?

Before we get into the ‘how’, let’s consider the ‘why’. The reasons for wanting to watch YouTube in the background are plentiful:

• Productivity Boost: Listen to lectures, podcasts, or ambient music while working on other tasks.
• Entertainment While You Work: Keep up with your favorite vloggers or gaming channels without completely sacrificing your focus.
• Following Live Streams: Stay engaged with live broadcasts while simultaneously participating in online discussions or working.
• Learning and Education: Access instructional videos, tutorials, or documentaries without interrupting your workflow.
• Background Noise: Use calming sounds or music to enhance concentration or create a relaxing atmosphere.
• Following Sports: Watch live or recorded sporting events and keep up with scores while engaging in other activities.

Methods to Watch YouTube While on Another Tab

Fortunately, there are several methods to achieve this, catering to different needs and devices. Let’s break down the most effective solutions:

1. Picture-in-Picture (PiP) Mode (Web Browser, Mobile Apps)

Picture-in-Picture mode is a fantastic built-in feature that allows you to float a small video window over other applications. Here’s how to use it:

A. Using PiP on Desktop Browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari)

Google Chrome

1. Start Playing a YouTube Video: Open YouTube in Chrome and begin playing the video you wish to watch.
2. Enable PiP: Right-click anywhere on the video. You’ll see a context menu. If you right-click only once you’ll get the standard Youtube menu, right click twice quickly and you will see the browser menu. Select the “Picture in Picture” option from that menu.
3. Float the Video: The video will now detach and float in a small window. You can move this window around your screen and resize it by dragging the corners.
4. Continue Browsing: Now you can freely browse other websites or use other applications while the video continues to play in the floating window.

Mozilla Firefox

1. Start Playing a YouTube Video: Open YouTube in Firefox and begin playing your video.
2. Enable PiP: Similarly to chrome, double right click on the video. Select the “Picture in Picture” option from that menu.
3. Floating Window: The video will detach into a small floating window. Move it and resize as needed.
4. Multitask: Continue your other tasks while watching your video in the PiP window.

Safari (macOS)

1. Start Playing a YouTube Video: Open Safari and play your desired YouTube video.
2. Enable PiP: Control-Click or Right-click the video. Choose “Enter Picture in Picture.”
3. Floating Playback: The video will now be in its floating, resizable window.
4. Use Other Apps: Work on other apps as the video plays seamlessly.

Note: The exact wording or look of the menu may differ slightly based on your browser version, but the overall process is largely the same.

B. Using PiP on Mobile Devices (Android, iOS)

Android

1. Open the YouTube App: Launch the YouTube app on your Android device.
2. Play a Video: Select and play your desired video.
3. Go Home or Use another App: Start playing the video, then tap on the ‘home’ button on your device, or simply switch to a different app.
4. PiP Automatically Activates: If your device and app support it, the video will shrink down into a floating picture-in-picture window on your screen.
5. Adjusting the Window: You can move the PiP window around your screen and resize it by dragging its corners or pinch-zooming.

iOS (iPhone & iPad)

On iOS, the process for PiP is similar, but there are a couple of nuances:

1. Open the YouTube App: Launch the YouTube app on your iOS device.
2. Play a Video: Choose your desired video and begin playback.
3. Go Home or Use another App: Start playing the video, then tap on the ‘home’ button on your device, or simply switch to a different app.
4. PiP Activation: The video should now reduce down into a small PiP window. (Note: This might not be available on all iOS versions or with all videos in the YouTube app.)
5. Managing the Window: Reposition and resize the window as you like.

Important Note for Mobile PiP: Sometimes, the native YouTube app might not allow PiP outside of the app (This is especially for users without Premium subscription). In these cases, you can watch videos in your phone’s browser, and the browser might provide the needed functionality. Also, it’s worth noting that on some Android devices PiP needs to be turned on in the system settings for it to work.

2. Background Playback (YouTube Premium)

YouTube Premium offers the most seamless way to enjoy your videos in the background, even when your device is locked. Here’s how it works:

• Subscribe to YouTube Premium: If you don’t have it, sign up for a YouTube Premium subscription (it’s often bundled with other Google services).
• Play a Video: Open the YouTube app on your mobile or computer and start playing any video.
• Go Back or Lock Your Screen: Switch to a different app, go to your home screen, or even lock your device. With YouTube Premium, the video will continue to play audio in the background.
• Control Playback: On mobile, you’ll typically have playback controls in your device’s notification bar or lock screen for convenient access.

Pros of YouTube Premium:

• No Interruptions: Videos play without pause when you switch apps.
• Background Audio: Perfect for listening to music, podcasts, or lectures while doing other things.
• Ad-Free: An additional perk, you can watch all videos without advertisements.

Cons of YouTube Premium:

• Cost: YouTube Premium requires a monthly fee.

3. Using Third-Party Extensions and Apps

Several browser extensions and third-party applications can provide background playback capabilities. However, it’s important to be cautious when using these, as they may have privacy or security implications. Only install those which come from trusted sources.

A. Browser Extensions

Extensions such as ‘Picture-in-Picture Extension’, ‘Floating YouTube’, and others may offer advanced PiP features or background playback. The precise steps might vary from extension to extension, but generally involve the following:

1. Install the Extension: Visit your browser’s extension store and search for the relevant extension. Add it to your browser.
2. Activate the Extension: Typically, a new icon will appear in your browser’s toolbar. Click it to access extension’s settings or functionality while on a YouTube page.
3. Play Video: Play your video on YouTube and then activate the extension.
4. PiP or Background Playback: If it provides PiP, it would pop out a window. If background playback is provided, the audio would continue to play when switching tabs or apps.

Note: The stability and performance of extensions can vary, so carefully vet them before using them.

B. Third-Party Apps (Mobile)

Some third-party mobile apps offer background playback for YouTube videos without a YouTube Premium subscription. These often work by playing the video’s audio in the background while minimizing or locking the device. Examples of these might be apps which redirect the YouTube video feed into a simplified player. Here’s the general way such an app would work:

1. Download and Install the App: Download from app stores or other reputable sources.
2. Open the App and Copy YouTube Link: The apps would provide a link pasting box in its interface.
3. Paste the Video Link: Paste the link from the YouTube video.
4. Start Playing the Video: The app will play the selected video and possibly offer PiP and background playback features.

Caution: Always check reviews and security ratings for these apps, and only use the ones which appear legitimate and safe.

4. Using the Audio-Only Mode

If your primary goal is to listen to the audio content of a video without needing the visual aspect, you can simply mute the video or focus your attention on the other tasks you are completing. You could also use the audio controls within the browser and put the YouTube tab on mute. By making this switch, you can switch tabs or even minimize the browser window while only the audio is playing. This approach might not be as seamless as background playback on premium subscription or PIP, but it is quick and effective.

Tips for Optimal Multitasking with YouTube

Here are some additional tips to make your multitasking experience as smooth as possible:

• Optimize Audio Levels: Adjust the volume of the YouTube video so it doesn’t distract you from your other tasks.
• Use Headphones: Headphones can reduce distractions and keep your audio enjoyment private.
• Browser Extensions: Browser extensions, mentioned above, help if the browser does not provide necessary functionality.
• Use Browser Tabs: If you are not using PiP or Background playback, use multiple browser tabs and resize the browser so both windows are visible on the screen, or alternatively use multiple computer monitors.
• Choose the Right Content: Select audio-focused content, such as podcasts, lectures, or ambient music, when background audio is your primary goal.
• Manage Your Attention: Be mindful of your focus and switch back to a primary task when needed. Don’t get lost in YouTube, be productive!
• Update Browser: Keep your browser up to date to ensure all functionalities such as PiP are working properly.
• Update Operating System: Keep your OS up to date to allow for smoother performance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, things might not work as smoothly as we would like. Here are some troubleshooting steps:

• PiP Not Working: Check if your browser, device, or app version supports PiP. Ensure the feature is not disabled in system settings.
• Background Playback Issues: Verify your YouTube Premium subscription status or check third-party app or extension settings.
• Video Buffering: Stable internet connection is crucial. Switch to a different network if needed or reduce the resolution of the video.
• Incompatible Extension: Disable the extension and verify if the problem persists, or check if it requires an update.
• App/OS Update: Ensure your app and operating system are up to date to allow for full feature implementation.

Conclusion

Watching YouTube while using other applications or browsing other websites is not only possible, but it’s easier than ever. Whether you choose the built-in Picture-in-Picture mode, a YouTube Premium subscription, or a third-party solution, there are multiple ways to enjoy your favorite content while boosting your productivity and making your experience more convenient. Explore the methods listed, experiment, and find the one that best suits your needs. Happy multitasking!