How to Play YouTube in Background on iPhone [2025 Free Method]
Listen to YouTube videos while using other apps on your iPhone - completely free, no Premium subscription required!
Why YouTube Background Play on iPhone Matters
Want to listen to YouTube videos while texting, browsing, or using other apps on your iPhone? Unfortunately, YouTube's official app requires a Premium subscription ($15.99/month) for background playback. But there's a completely free solution that works just as well!
Whether you're listening to music, podcasts, educational content, or ASMR videos, our method gives you the same background playback experience without any monthly fees. Plus, you get zero ads and full lock screen controls.
Works on All iPhones
Compatible with iOS 15, 16, 17, and 18. Works on iPhone 12, 13, 14, 15, and newer models.
Lock Screen Controls
Full playback controls on your lock screen and control center, just like any music app.
Zero Ads
Enjoy uninterrupted listening with no video or audio advertisements.
🎉 Ready to Try Background Play?
Start listening to YouTube in background on your iPhone right now - it takes less than 30 seconds!Start Playing Now →
No signup required • Works instantly • 100% free
The Free Method: How It Works
Our web-based YouTube player is designed specifically for mobile devices. When you minimize Safari or switch to another app, the audio continues playing seamlessly. You'll see playback controls in your notification center and lock screen, giving you the exact same experience as YouTube Premium.
Best part? No app installation, no account creation, and no subscription fees. It works entirely through your browser using advanced web technologies.
Step-by-Step Tutorial
Open Safari on Your iPhone
Launch Safari browser and visit skipcut.com. The site is fully optimized for iPhone and works perfectly on all iOS versions.
Paste Any YouTube URL
Copy the YouTube video link you want to listen to and paste it into our search box. Works with any YouTube video, playlist, or channel.
Start Playing
Tap "Load Video" and hit the play button. The video will start playing normally in your browser.
Switch to Background
Press the home button, swipe to another app, or lock your screen. you will see the playback controls in the notification center and lock screen. click play to start playing the video. The audio will continue playing in the background!
Control from Lock Screen
Use the playback controls that appear on your lock screen or in the control center to pause, skip, or adjust volume.
Key Benefits of This Method
🆓 Completely Free
No subscription fees, no hidden costs. YouTube Premium costs $15.99/month - this method is free forever.
📱 Native iOS Integration
Works with iOS media controls, Siri commands, and AirPods. You can even use "Hey Siri, pause music" to control playback.
🎧 Perfect for Music & Podcasts
Ideal for YouTube music playlists, podcast episodes, audiobooks, meditation tracks, and sleep sounds.
🔋 Battery Efficient
Since only audio plays in background (not video), it uses significantly less battery than regular YouTube app.
🚫 Ad-Free Experience
No interruptions from ads, even on non-Premium YouTube content.
Troubleshooting Tips
Audio Stops When I Switch Apps
Solution: Make sure you're using Safari (not Chrome or other browsers). Safari has the best background audio support on iOS.
No Lock Screen Controls
Solution: Start playing the video first, then minimize the app. The controls appear once audio begins playing in background.
Video Doesn't Load
Solution: Check your internet connection and try refreshing the page. Some restricted videos may not be available.
Audio Quality Issues
Solution: Our player automatically selects the best available audio quality. For highest quality, ensure you have a strong WiFi connection.
Alternative Methods Comparison
| Method | Cost | Ads | Setup |
|---|---|---|---|
| SkipCut (Our Method) | Free | None | Instant |
| YouTube Premium | $15.99/month | None | Account required |
| Third-party apps | Varies | Usually has ads | App installation |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this method legal and safe?
Yes, absolutely. We're simply providing a web-based YouTube player that works in your browser. All content comes directly from YouTube's servers.
Does it work with YouTube playlists?
Yes! You can paste playlist URLs and they'll play continuously in background, auto-advancing to the next video.
Can I use AirPods or Bluetooth headphones?
Absolutely. It works with any audio output method - AirPods, Bluetooth speakers, wired headphones, or built-in speakers.
Will this drain my battery faster?
No, it actually uses less battery than the YouTube app since it only plays audio in background, not video.
Does it work on iPad too?
Yes, this method works perfectly on iPad as well as iPhone. The interface adapts to your device size automatically.
🎵 Start Your Ad-Free YouTube Experience
Join thousands of iPhone users who already enjoy background YouTube playback for free!Try SkipCut Now →
No signup required • Works instantly • 100% free