How Can I Play YouTube Music With the Screen Off?

If you’ve ever tried to listen to YouTube music with the screen off on your Android or iPhone, you already know the frustration; close the app or lock your screen, and the music stops. But in 2025, there are several easy (and legal) ways to keep your favorite YouTube tracks playing even when your screen is off or your phone is locked. Whether you want to save battery life or simply keep your phone in your pocket, here’s how to do it.

1. Subscribe to YouTube Premium (Best Option)

The simplest and most reliable way to play YouTube music with the screen off is by subscribing to YouTube Premium. This service allows background play, ad-free videos, and even offline downloads. Once you’re subscribed:

• Open the YouTube app

• Start playing a music video or playlist

• Lock your phone or switch to another app, the audio will keep playing seamlessly.
  

YouTube Premium also comes with YouTube Music Premium, giving you an even better experience for audio streaming.

2. Use the YouTube Music App

If you’re primarily looking for music, downloading the YouTube Music app is a smart move. YouTube Music Premium allows background playback and offline listening—perfect for screen-off use.

• Open YouTube Music

• Start your playlist or song

• Lock your screen and enjoy uninterrupted music.
  

3. Browser Workaround (For Free Users)

If you don’t have YouTube Premium, there’s a workaround:

• Open Chrome or Firefox on your Android or iPhone.

• Go to youtube.com and search for your song or playlist.

• Tap the browser menu (three dots) and select Desktop Site.

• Start the video, then lock your screen.

• Swipe down the notification shade and press play on the media controls.
  

This method can be a bit inconsistent depending on your phone model and browser updates.

4. Third-Party Apps & Extensions

Some third-party apps and browser extensions allow background playback. Apps like Brave Browser offer built-in background audio support for YouTube videos without requiring Premium. However, always ensure any app you use complies with YouTube’s terms of service to avoid security or account issues.

5. Picture-in-Picture (PiP) Mode

If your main goal is to watch YouTube videos while using other apps, PiP mode is an option. But remember, PiP usually requires YouTube Premium for mobile users:

• Go to Settings > Apps > YouTube > Picture-in-Picture and enable it.

• Start a video, then press Home or swipe up. The video will shrink into a small window.
  

This isn’t quite screen-off playback, but it’s great for multitasking.

So, how can you play YouTube music with the screen off? The easiest, most user-friendly answer in 2025 is still YouTube Premium. But if you’re looking for free alternatives, the browser workaround and certain third-party apps can help in a pinch.