In late January 2026, Google made a significant change to YouTube’s mobile website that has frustrated many users. The company now blocks background playback on third-party browsers like Brave, Vivaldi, Samsung Internet, and Microsoft Edge, making it exclusive to YouTube Premium subscribers.
What Changed:
Previously, users could play YouTube videos in the background while using other apps or with their screen locked. Now, when you minimize these browsers or lock your screen, the audio immediately stops. YouTube also removes the “Now Playing” card from your lock screen, preventing you from controlling playback without unlocking your phone.
How It Works:
This isn’t just a simple restriction. YouTube uses sophisticated server-side checks, including the Page Visibility API, to detect when your browser tab loses focus or when your screen is locked. Many users see a brief “MediaOngoingActivity” notification before the audio cuts out completely.
Why This Matters:
This change forces users into a difficult position. If you want to listen to YouTube while multitasking on your phone, you now have three main options: pay for YouTube Premium, use the official YouTube app, or try unreliable workarounds.
Potential Workarounds:
Some users report limited success with:
- Switching to “Desktop Site” mode in browser settings
- Firefox extensions like “Video Background Play Fix”
- Picture-in-Picture mode (minimizing the video before locking your screen)
- Alternative apps like NewPipe or LibreTube on Android
However, these solutions are inconsistent and may stop working as YouTube continues updating its detection methods.
Google is clearly pushing users toward YouTube Premium by removing features that were previously available for free. This aggressive monetization strategy particularly impacts people who prefer third-party browsers for privacy or customization reasons, essentially forcing them to choose between convenience and their preferred browsing experience.