How to Run Netflix in the Background on iPhone: A Comprehensive Guide for Freedom-Seeking Bingers
Greetings, Binge-Worthy Readers!
Are you a Netflix enthusiast who yearns to continue your binge-watching sessions without being tied to your phone screen? Or perhaps you want to listen to your favorite shows while multitasking on other apps? If so, you’ve come to the right place! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll unveil the secrets of running Netflix in the background on your trusty iPhone, empowering you with the freedom to keep the entertainment flowing wherever you go. So, grab your popcorn, get comfortable, and let’s dive into the magical world of background Netflixing!
Section 1: The iOS Conundrum and Its Workarounds
Subheading 1: Unraveling the Background App Refresh Dilemma
One might assume that simply enabling Background App Refresh for Netflix would suffice for background playback. However, iOS has its own quirks that prevent this straightforward approach. Background App Refresh does not apply to video streaming apps, leaving us with the need for clever workarounds.
Subheading 2: Safari to the Rescue: Unlocking Limited Background Streaming
While the Netflix app may not cooperate with background playback, Safari comes to our aid. By accessing Netflix through the Safari browser, we can trick our devices into allowing limited background streaming. This method, however, has its drawbacks: the video stops playing if you switch to another tab or lock your phone.
Section 2: Third-Party Solutions: Breaking the Boundaries
Subheading 1: Introducing the Power of PIP: Picture-in-Picture
Pipifier (available on the App Store) is a revolutionary app that unlocks the Picture-in-Picture (PIP) feature for Netflix on iPhones. With PIP, you can watch Netflix in a floating window while using other apps or browsing the web. This provides a seamless multitasking experience, letting you enjoy your shows while staying on top of other tasks.
Subheading 2: The Browser Extension Advantage: Extensions Unleashed
Browser extensions like "Video Background Play Fix" and "Background Video Pause Resumer" can also enhance your background Netflix experience. These extensions automatically resume paused videos in the background, allowing you to switch between apps without interrupting your viewing pleasure.
Section 3: Apple Music: An Unexpected Ally
Subheading 1: The Hidden Harmony of AirPlay
AirPlay, a feature built into Apple Music, can be surprisingly useful for running Netflix in the background. By casting your Netflix content to an Apple TV or HomePod, you can bypass the limitations of the Netflix app and enjoy seamless background playback on your iPhone.
Subheading 2: The Essence of Multitasking: Audio-Only Delights
If you’re primarily interested in listening to Netflix shows or movies, you can utilize Apple Music’s audio-only "lossless" playback feature. Simply disable video playback in the Netflix app’s settings and let the audio stream in the background while you explore other apps or activities.
Section 4: Device Compatibility Breakdown
| Device | Background Streaming | Background Audio |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone XS and later | Yes (limited via Safari or third-party apps) | Yes (via Apple Music) |
| iPhone X and earlier | No | Yes (via Apple Music) |
| iPad Pro (all models) | Yes (via Safari or third-party apps) | Yes (via Apple Music) |
| iPad (7th generation and earlier) | Yes (via Safari) | Yes (via Apple Music) |
| iPod touch (7th generation) | Yes (via Safari) | Yes (via Apple Music) |
Conclusion: Binge-Watching Bliss at Your Fingertips
There you have it, folks! With the methods outlined in this comprehensive guide, you now possess the knowledge to run Netflix in the background on your iPhone, unraveling a world of entertainment freedom. Whether you’re a multitasking master or simply seeking an immersive audio experience, the options presented here will empower you to keep the binge-watching bliss flowing.
Before you dive back into your favorite shows, don’t forget to check out our other articles for even more tips and tricks to enhance your Netflix experience. From optimizing streaming quality to discovering hidden gems, our experts have got you covered! Keep browsing, keep exploring, and keep bingeing responsibly, readers!
FAQ about Run Netflix in Background on iPhone
Q: How to run Netflix in the background on iPhone?
A: There is no official way to run Netflix in the background on iPhone.
Q: Why can’t I run Netflix in the background?
A: iOS restrictions prevent third-party apps like Netflix from running in the background for extended periods to conserve battery life.
Q: Are there any unofficial ways to run Netflix in the background?
A: Yes, but these methods may not always work and may violate Netflix’s terms of service.
Q: What are the unofficial methods to run Netflix in the background?
A: Use a split-screen view or use Picture-in-Picture mode. However, these methods may not work on all iPhones.
Q: Is it safe to use these unofficial methods?
A: Using unofficial methods may violate Netflix’s terms of service and compromise your account security.
Q: Why does Netflix stop playing when I switch apps?
A: This is due to iOS’s memory management system. When you switch apps, iOS may close background apps to free up memory.
Q: Can I download Netflix videos for offline viewing?
A: Yes, Netflix allows you to download certain content for offline viewing. However, you must be within the Netflix app to watch downloaded videos.
Q: Why can’t I download all Netflix content?
A: Due to licensing restrictions, not all Netflix content is available for offline download.
Q: How long do downloaded Netflix videos stay available?
A: Downloaded videos expire after a certain period, typically within 7-30 days.
Q: Can I watch downloaded Netflix videos without an internet connection?
A: Yes, you can watch downloaded videos without an internet connection. However, you must first download the videos while connected to the internet.
