2 min read
Google has shut down a popular workaround that let users play YouTube videos in the background without paying for YouTube Premium. The change mainly impacts people who used mobile browsers and third-party apps to access background playback for free.
YouTube Premium is best known for removing ads. However, it also offers offline downloads and background playback. This feature lets videos keep playing when the screen is off or when users switch apps. Many people use it to listen to music, podcasts, and long videos.
For years, users found simple ways around the paywall. Browsers like Samsung Internet, Brave, and Vivaldi allowed background playback through the YouTube website. As a result, many users enjoyed premium features without a subscription.
In recent days, users noticed that background playback stopped working in those browsers. Google later confirmed the update. The company said background playback is meant only for YouTube Premium members. It added that the experience is now consistent across all platforms.
Google did not share how many users are affected. Still, the workaround was widely used. From a business view, the move protects the value of YouTube Premium.
Some technical workarounds may still exist. However, they are harder to use and less reliable. By closing the easiest loopholes, Google has pushed more users toward its paid plan.
