YouTube Background Playback Update

As of January 29, 2026, YouTube has implemented an update that prevents non-Premium users from accessing background playback functionality.

A Google spokesperson confirmed this change, clarifying the company's stance on the feature's intended audience.

"Background playback is a feature intended exclusively for YouTube Premium members."

Ensuring Platform Consistency

YouTube further elaborated that the update seeks to standardize the user experience across all platforms. Previously, some non-Premium users had, in certain scenarios, managed to access background playback through mobile web browsers.

These instances often involved utilizing various workarounds, such as specific non-Chrome browsers and ad blockers, to access features typically reserved for Premium subscribers. The recent update ensures a consistent experience for all users, aligning the mobile web browser functionality with the standard app experience.