Multitasking is a necessity in today’s fast-paced digital world. Whether you’re working on a project, writing an email, or simply browsing the web, the ability to simultaneously enjoy YouTube videos can significantly enhance your productivity and entertainment. Fortunately, there are several methods to watch YouTube while using other tabs, allowing you to listen to your favorite music, catch up on news, or follow tutorials without interrupting your workflow. This comprehensive guide explores various techniques to achieve this, catering to different devices and browsers. We will discuss Picture-in-Picture mode, browser extensions, background playback methods for mobile devices, and even strategies for smart TVs.
1. Picture-in-Picture (PiP) Mode
Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode is a feature that allows you to detach a video from its webpage and display it in a small, floating window that stays on top of other applications. This is perhaps the most straightforward and universally compatible method for watching YouTube while using other tabs.
1.1. Using PiP in Modern Browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge)
Most modern web browsers natively support PiP mode, though the implementation might vary slightly.
1.1.1. Google Chrome
Chrome offers several ways to activate PiP mode for YouTube videos:
- Right-Click Method:
- Open YouTube in Chrome and start playing the video you want to watch.
- Right-click on the video twice. The first right-click will show YouTube’s contextual menu; the second will reveal the browser’s menu.
- Select “Picture in picture” from the browser’s contextual menu.
- The video will now appear in a small, resizable window that floats above other applications. You can drag it to any corner of your screen.
- To return the video to its original tab, click the “Back to tab” button on the PiP window.
- Chrome Extensions:
- Many Chrome extensions can simplify the PiP process. One popular choice is “Picture-in-Picture Extension (by Google).”
- Install the extension from the Chrome Web Store.
- Once installed, a PiP icon will appear in your Chrome toolbar.
- Click the icon while a YouTube video is playing to instantly launch the video in PiP mode.
1.1.2. Mozilla Firefox
Firefox offers a built-in PiP button that appears when you hover over a video.
- Using the Built-in PiP Button:
- Open YouTube in Firefox and start playing the video.
- Hover your mouse cursor over the video. A small blue PiP button will appear on the right side of the video player.
- Click the PiP button to launch the video in a floating window.
- You can move and resize the PiP window as needed.
- To return the video to its original tab, click the “Back to tab” button on the PiP window or close the PiP window entirely.
1.1.3. Safari (macOS)
Safari on macOS provides native PiP support that is deeply integrated with the operating system.
- Using the PiP Button in the Video Player:
- Open YouTube in Safari and play the video.
- Look for the PiP button in the video player controls (it looks like a small rectangle with another rectangle inside it).
- Click the PiP button to initiate PiP mode.
- The video will appear in a floating window that you can resize and reposition.
- To return the video to the Safari tab, click the PiP button in the floating window.
- Using the Context Menu:
- Right-click on the video twice (similar to Chrome).
- Select “Enter Picture in Picture” from the context menu.
1.1.4. Microsoft Edge
Edge also supports PiP, similar to Chrome, given that it is also built on Chromium.
- Right-Click Method:
- Open YouTube in Edge and start playing the video.
- Right-click on the video twice to access the browser’s context menu.
- Select “Picture in picture.”
- The video will open in a floating window.
- Extensions:
- Edge supports Chrome extensions, so you can use the “Picture-in-Picture Extension (by Google)” or similar extensions from the Chrome Web Store.
1.2. Limitations of PiP Mode
- Browser Compatibility: PiP support is not available in all browsers, particularly older versions.
- Resource Intensive: Running multiple video instances can consume more system resources.
- Feature Limitations: The PiP window typically offers limited controls compared to the full YouTube player.
2. Browser Extensions for Background Playback
If PiP mode doesn’t fully meet your needs, browser extensions offer more advanced features, such as background playback and audio-only mode.
2.1. Chrome Extensions
The Chrome Web Store is a treasure trove of extensions designed to enhance your YouTube experience.
2.1.1. Enhancer for YouTube™
Enhancer for YouTube™ is a powerful extension that offers a wide range of features, including:
- Ad blocking
- Theme customization
- Playback speed control
- Looping
- Background playback
Installation and Usage:
- Search for “Enhancer for YouTube™” in the Chrome Web Store.
- Click “Add to Chrome” to install the extension.
- Once installed, open YouTube and play a video.
- The extension will automatically activate, and you can configure its settings by clicking the Enhancer for YouTube™ icon in your Chrome toolbar.
- To enable background playback, ensure the option is enabled in the extension’s settings. Now, when you switch to another tab, the video will continue playing in the background.
2.1.2. BackgroundTube
BackgroundTube is a simpler extension specifically designed for background playback.
Installation and Usage:
- Search for “BackgroundTube” in the Chrome Web Store.
- Install the extension.
- After installing, simply play any YouTube video. When you switch to another tab, BackgroundTube will automatically keep the audio playing.
2.2. Firefox Add-ons
Firefox offers similar add-ons to enhance your YouTube experience.
2.2.1. YouTube High Definition
While primarily focused on video quality, YouTube High Definition also provides background playback functionality.
Installation and Usage:
- Search for “YouTube High Definition” in the Firefox Add-ons store.
- Install the add-on.
- Configure the add-on settings to enable background playback.
- Play a YouTube video and switch to another tab; the audio will continue playing.
2.2.2. Video Background Play Fix
This add-on directly addresses the background playback issue for YouTube.
Installation and Usage:
- Search for “Video Background Play Fix” in the Firefox Add-ons store.
- Install the add-on.
- No configuration needed. It will automatically enable background playback for YouTube.
2.3. Advantages of Browser Extensions
- Background Playback: Extensions allow you to listen to YouTube videos even when the browser window is minimized or another tab is active.
- Audio-Only Mode: Some extensions offer an audio-only mode, which saves bandwidth and reduces resource consumption.
- Additional Features: Many extensions provide other useful features, such as ad blocking, theme customization, and playback speed control.
2.4. Disadvantages of Browser Extensions
- Security Risks: Installing extensions from untrusted sources can pose security risks. Always choose extensions from reputable developers and review their permissions carefully.
- Performance Impact: Too many extensions can slow down your browser.
- Maintenance: Extensions may require updates to remain compatible with YouTube’s evolving platform.
3. Background Playback on Mobile Devices
Watching YouTube in the background on mobile devices requires a slightly different approach, as the official YouTube app typically pauses playback when you switch to another app.
3.1. YouTube Premium
The most straightforward way to enable background playback on mobile devices is by subscribing to YouTube Premium. This paid subscription offers several benefits, including:
- Ad-free viewing
- Background playback
- Offline downloads
- YouTube Music Premium
With YouTube Premium, you can simply start playing a video in the YouTube app and then switch to another app; the video will continue playing in the background.
3.2. Using a Web Browser (Mobile)
If you don’t want to pay for YouTube Premium, you can use a web browser on your mobile device to achieve background playback.
3.2.1. Chrome (Android)
- Open Chrome on your Android device and navigate to YouTube.
- Request the desktop version of the site by tapping the three dots in the top-right corner and selecting “Desktop site.”
- Start playing the video you want to listen to.
- Press the home button to exit Chrome. The video will initially pause.
- Swipe down from the top of the screen to access your notification shade. You should see playback controls for the YouTube video.
- Tap the play button to resume playback. The video will now continue playing in the background.
3.2.2. Safari (iOS)
- Open Safari on your iOS device and go to YouTube.
- Request the desktop version of the site by tapping the “AA” icon in the address bar and selecting “Request Desktop Website.”
- Start playing the video.
- Exit Safari by pressing the home button or swiping up from the bottom of the screen. The video will pause.
- Open Control Center by swiping down from the top-right corner of the screen (or up from the bottom on older iPhones).
- You should see playback controls for the YouTube video. Tap the play button to resume playback in the background.
3.3. Third-Party Apps (Android)
Several third-party apps for Android offer background playback for YouTube without requiring YouTube Premium. However, be cautious when using these apps, as they may violate YouTube’s terms of service.
3.3.1. NewPipe
NewPipe is a lightweight, open-source YouTube client that focuses on privacy and doesn’t rely on the official YouTube API.
Features:
- Background playback
- Ad-free viewing
- Download videos and audio
- Popup player (PiP mode)
- No Google account required
Installation and Usage:
- Download NewPipe from its official website (F-Droid or the NewPipe website itself).
- Install the app. You may need to enable “Install from Unknown Sources” in your device’s settings.
- Open NewPipe and search for the YouTube video you want to play.
- Tap the video to play it.
- To enable background playback, tap the “Background” button below the video.
Disclaimer: Using third-party apps like NewPipe may violate YouTube’s terms of service, so use them at your own risk.
3.4. Considerations for Mobile Background Playback
- Battery Life: Background playback can consume battery power, especially if you’re streaming video over a mobile network.
- Data Usage: Streaming video in the background can use a significant amount of mobile data. Consider using Wi-Fi whenever possible.
- App Compatibility: Some apps may interfere with background playback.
4. Watching YouTube on Smart TVs
Watching YouTube on a smart TV while doing other things might seem challenging since multitasking on a TV is limited. However, there are workarounds and features that can help.
4.1. Picture-in-Picture (PiP) on Smart TVs
Some smart TVs offer a Picture-in-Picture mode that allows you to watch content from one source (like YouTube via the built-in app) while using another input (like a gaming console or another HDMI device). The availability of PiP depends on the TV manufacturer and model.
How to Use PiP (General Steps):
- Open the YouTube app on your smart TV and start playing a video.
- Navigate to your TV’s settings menu.
- Look for a “Picture-in-Picture” or “Multi-View” option.
- Select the input source you want to display in the main window (e.g., HDMI1 for your gaming console).
- The YouTube video should now appear in a small window on the screen.
4.2. Background Audio with Smart TV Apps
Some smart TV operating systems, like Android TV, allow certain apps to play audio in the background, even when you switch to another app or the home screen.
- Open the YouTube app on your Android TV.
- Start playing the video you want to listen to.
- Press the home button on your remote to return to the Android TV home screen.
- If supported, the audio from the YouTube video should continue playing.
4.3. Using a Secondary Device
If your smart TV doesn’t offer PiP or background audio, you can use a secondary device (such as a smartphone or tablet) to watch YouTube while using the TV for other activities.
- Play the YouTube video on your smartphone or tablet using one of the methods described earlier (e.g., YouTube Premium, browser with background playback).
- Connect your gaming console or other device to your smart TV and use it as the main display.
4.4. Limitations on Smart TVs
- Operating System Restrictions: Smart TV operating systems are often limited in their multitasking capabilities.
- App Compatibility: Not all apps support PiP or background playback on smart TVs.
- Resource Constraints: Smart TVs have limited processing power and memory, which can affect their ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
5. Additional Tips and Tricks
- Use Headphones: When watching YouTube in the background, using headphones can help you focus on the audio and avoid disturbing others.
- Adjust Playback Speed: Speeding up or slowing down the playback speed can help you consume content more efficiently. Many browser extensions and the YouTube player itself offer playback speed controls.
- Create Playlists: Create playlists of your favorite music or videos to ensure a continuous stream of background content.
- Minimize Distractions: Close unnecessary tabs and apps to minimize distractions and improve your focus.
- Monitor Resource Usage: Keep an eye on your device’s resource usage (CPU, memory, battery) to ensure that background playback isn’t negatively impacting performance.
6. Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Video Pauses When Switching Tabs:
- Ensure that you’re using a method that supports background playback (e.g., YouTube Premium, browser extension, desktop site in mobile browser).
- Check your browser settings to ensure that media playback is allowed in the background.
- Try a different browser or extension.
- Background Playback Stops Unexpectedly:
- Check your device’s battery settings to ensure that battery optimization isn’t interfering with background playback.
- Close any apps that may be interfering with media playback.
- Restart your device.
- PiP Mode Not Working:
- Ensure that your browser supports PiP mode and that it’s enabled in the settings.
- Update your browser to the latest version.
- Try a different video or website to rule out compatibility issues.
7. Conclusion
Watching YouTube while using other tabs can significantly enhance your productivity and entertainment. Whether you choose to use Picture-in-Picture mode, browser extensions, or background playback methods for mobile devices, there are numerous ways to enjoy YouTube content without interrupting your workflow. By understanding the various techniques and troubleshooting common issues, you can seamlessly integrate YouTube into your multitasking routine. Remember to prioritize security and privacy when using browser extensions and third-party apps, and always be mindful of battery life and data usage on mobile devices. With the right approach, you can unlock the full potential of YouTube as a background companion for work, study, or leisure.
8. FAQs
Is it legal to use third-party apps for background playback on YouTube?
Using third-party apps may violate YouTube’s terms of service, although enforcement varies. Use them at your own risk.
Does YouTube Premium support background playback on all devices?
Yes, YouTube Premium supports background playback on all devices where you’re logged in with your Premium account.
Are there any free and safe browser extensions for YouTube background playback?
Yes, extensions like “Enhancer for YouTube™” are generally safe if installed from the official Chrome Web Store or Firefox Add-ons. Always check reviews and permissions before installing any extension.
Why does my YouTube video keep pausing when I switch tabs on my phone?
This usually happens if you’re not using YouTube Premium or a method that supports background playback. Try using a mobile browser in desktop mode or a third-party app like NewPipe.
Can I watch YouTube in PiP mode on my smart TV?
Some smart TVs offer PiP mode, but it depends on the manufacturer and model. Check your TV’s settings menu for a “Picture-in-Picture” or “Multi-View” option.