YouTube Restricts Key Feature to Non-Paying Users; Methods to Bypass

YouTube remains the largest video platform worldwide, with millions of hours of available content that captivates users daily. However, recent changes have left some non-paying users searching for ways to bypass newly implemented restrictions.

YouTube’s Recent Restrictions on Video Playback

In late January, YouTube made a notable modification by closing a loophole that allowed users to stream videos in the background without a premium subscription. This change primarily affects those who utilize the YouTube app on mobile devices. Previously, users could play audio from videos while the screen was off, a convenience that many have found invaluable.

Impacts of the YouTube Premium Subscription

YouTube Premium, priced at $13.99 monthly, offers several benefits, including:

• Ad-free viewing experience
• Ability to download content for offline access
• Continued audio playback even when the screen is off

Without this subscription, users face limitations when using the standard YouTube app, particularly with extended audio playback, which requires the app to remain open.

Methods to Bypass YouTube’s Restrictions

While some methods of bypassing these restrictions have diminished, a few alternatives remain. Notably, using the Brave browser provides a workaround.

Using the Brave Browser to Play Videos

To continue enjoying background playback, users can follow these steps on the Brave browser:

1. Open the Brave browser and go to YouTube.
2. Select the desired video to play.
3. Click on the musical note icon in the address bar to save the video to a playlist.
4. Click the musical note icon again and select “Open in Playlist.”

This method allows users to listen to the video even when their screens are inactive.

Alternative Method Using the YouTube App

For those who prefer to stay within the YouTube app, there is a simpler, though less effective, option:

• Minimize the video while watching, keeping it on-screen.
• Shrink the video window to occupy a smaller portion of the screen.

While this enables users to open other applications, it’s important to note that audio playback will cease if the screen turns off.

Looking Ahead

YouTube’s ongoing changes raise questions about future restrictions. Although the Brave browser offers a current solution, users should be aware that YouTube may close this loophole at any time. Until then, these bypass methods provide valuable options for those unwilling to subscribe to YouTube Premium.