run video in background iphone

How to Run Videos in the Background on iPhone: A Comprehensive Guide

Hey there, readers!

Have you ever wished you could multitask on your iPhone while still enjoying your favorite videos? Well, you’re in luck! With the right method, you can run videos in the background and keep on doing whatever else you need to do. In this article, we’ll take a comprehensive look at how to make this happen. So, let’s dive right in!

Method 1: Using the Picture-in-Picture (PiP) Feature

The Picture-in-Picture (PiP) feature allows you to watch videos in a small, movable window while using other apps. Here’s how to use it:

  • Start playing a video in a supported app. Supported apps include YouTube, Safari, and other video playback apps.
  • Tap the PiP icon. You’ll find this icon in the bottom-right corner of the video player.
  • Drag the PiP window to the desired location. You can move the window around the screen and resize it as needed.

Method 2: Using Safari’s "Request Desktop Website" Feature

If the PiP feature isn’t available for the video you want to watch, you can use Safari’s "Request Desktop Website" feature. This will allow you to view the video in a desktop-like mode, which often supports background playback. Here’s how:

  • Open Safari and navigate to the video you want to watch.
  • Tap the "aA" icon in the Safari toolbar.
  • Select "Request Desktop Website."
  • Start playing the video. The video should now play in the background.

Method 3: Using Third-Party Apps

There are also several third-party apps available that can enable background video playback on iPhone. Some popular options include:

  • InBackground: This app allows you to play videos from YouTube, Safari, and other apps in the background.
  • Video Background Play: This app supports background playback for videos from YouTube, Vimeo, and Dailymotion.
  • Floating Player: This app provides a floating video player that can be moved around the screen and played in the background.

Background Video Playback Tips

  • Not all videos support background playback. Some video formats and DRM-protected content may not be able to play in the background.
  • Some apps may restrict background playback. Certain apps may disable background playback to conserve battery life or for other reasons.
  • Background playback may consume more battery life. Keep in mind that running videos in the background can drain your battery faster.

Table Summary of Methods to Run Videos in Background on iPhone

Method How-to
Picture-in-Picture (PiP) Feature Start a video in a supported app and tap the PiP icon.
Safari’s "Request Desktop Website" Feature Open Safari, request the desktop site for the video, and start playback.
Third-Party Apps Download and use an app like InBackground or Video Background Play.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! With these methods, you can now run videos in the background on your iPhone and enjoy multitasking like never before. If you found this article helpful, consider checking out our other guides on iOS tips and tricks. Keep your eyes peeled for more awesome content coming your way!

FAQ about Run Video in Background iPhone

Can I run a video in the background on my iPhone?

Yes, you can run a video in the background on your iPhone if you have a paid Apple Music or Apple TV+ subscription. This feature is called "picture-in-picture" mode.

How do I run a video in the background on my iPhone?

To run a video in the background on your iPhone, first make sure you have a paid Apple Music or Apple TV+ subscription. Then, open the video you want to watch and tap the Picture-in-Picture icon in the bottom-right corner of the screen. The video will shrink and move to a corner of the screen, allowing you to continue using other apps while the video plays.

Can I move the picture-in-picture window around?

Yes, you can move the picture-in-picture window around by dragging it to a different corner of the screen. You can also pinch and zoom the window to make it larger or smaller.

Can I control the playback of the video in picture-in-picture mode?

Yes, you can control the playback of the video in picture-in-picture mode by tapping the controls that appear on the window. You can pause, play, rewind, and fast-forward the video, as well as adjust the volume.

Can I use picture-in-picture mode with any video app?

No, picture-in-picture mode is only available for videos played in the Apple Music or Apple TV+ apps.

What happens if I close the app while a video is playing in picture-in-picture mode?

If you close the app while a video is playing in picture-in-picture mode, the video will continue to play in the background. You can access the video again by opening the Control Center and tapping the Picture-in-Picture icon.

Can I share a video that is playing in picture-in-picture mode?

Yes, you can share a video that is playing in picture-in-picture mode by tapping the Share icon and selecting the app you want to share it with.

Can I record a video while a video is playing in picture-in-picture mode?

Yes, you can record a video while a video is playing in picture-in-picture mode by tapping the Screen Recording icon in the Control Center.

How do I turn off picture-in-picture mode?

To turn off picture-in-picture mode, tap the Picture-in-Picture icon in the corner of the screen and then tap the X to close the window.

Why is picture-in-picture mode not working on my iPhone?

If picture-in-picture mode is not working on your iPhone, make sure that you have a paid Apple Music or Apple TV+ subscription. You also need to make sure that your iPhone is running iOS 15 or later.