Update, September 2026: the add-on below still exists and still works. Kiwi Browser does not: it was archived in January 2025 and is no longer maintained. And to be accurate about what this is: Google lists background play as a YouTube Premium feature, so this is a way around something paid rather than something YouTube gives away. For ad blocking specifically, and for every device rather than just Android, see blocking ads in 2026.
One of the biggest questions out there is: How to watch Youtube with background play on my phone. You do not need Youtube Premium for background play, just a simple free Add-on!
Companion post: how to block YouTube ads on Android, with the same Firefox setup and a different add-on.
First Step – Install Firefox on your phone
The first step that will lead you to watch Youtube with background play on your phone is to install Firefox. Go to your Google play store and install Firefox. There is also the Yandex Browser that works.
Second Step – Go into your browser and to Add-ons
The privilege on your Android is that you can install Addons. Therefore, click on the three Dots that are near your search bar and then on Add-ons or Extensions.
Third Step – Install Video Background Play Fix
Install the Add-on Video Background Play Fix that enables you to play videos in the background on your firefox browser.
I like this Add-on quite a lot because it’s so simple but effective. I just had to install it quickly and after a few seconds I was able to do other tasks and still hear music or let’s play from Youtube.
Fourth Step – Watch Youtube with background play!
From now on, you will be able to hear music on Youtube and do other things. You don’t need Youtube Premium for background play, because there is an Add-on.
Read next: Blocking ads on every device · YouTube without ads on Android · All blog posts