Google has updated YouTube to prevent non-Premium users from playing videos in the background on mobile web browsers, ending a workaround that previously allowed free users to listen to content while switching apps or locking their screens.
The change affects several mobile browser platforms where background playback had remained accessible under certain conditions. Google confirmed that the update was rolled out following a surge in user complaints in recent days.
According to Google Product Manager Jane Williams, background playback is a feature exclusively reserved for YouTube Premium subscribers. She explained that while some non-Premium users had been accessing the function through mobile browsers, the company has now implemented a standardized experience across all platforms.
YouTube Premium has long marketed background playback as a key benefit, alongside ad-free viewing and offline downloads. By closing browser-based loopholes, Google is reinforcing its paywall and tightening control over Premium-only features.
Although Google did not disclose how many users are affected, the update has made casual bypassing through third-party browsers largely ineffective. The company has also introduced more advanced detection methods, which are not visible to regular users.
The move signals Google’s intent to encourage more users to subscribe to YouTube Premium, while ensuring consistent functionality and improved security across devices and browsers.
