YouTube Background Player

Keep YouTube playing in the background — blocks "still watching?" prompts, plus a native Picture-in-Picture.

Keeps YouTube (and YouTube Music) playing in the background when you minimize the browser, or switch apps — blocks "still watching?" prompts, plus a native Picture-in-Picture feature. Runs on youtube.com, youtube-nocookie.com (embedded players) and music.youtube.com. Tested on: ✔ Windows & Mac: Chrome, Firefox ✔ Android: Kiwi & Yandex ✨ Key Features ⚡ Keep playing in the background — Stops YouTube's own JavaScript from pausing the video when the tab is switched, browser minimized, or device is locked. ⚡ Auto-advance in the background — Keeps a playlist, mix, or "Up next" queue moving while the tab is hidden. ⚡ Auto-dismiss "Are you still watching?" prompts — Clears long-session confirmation prompts automatically. ⚡ Picture-in-Picture button — Embedded in the player controls; pops the video into an always-on-top window that survives switching or closing the tab. ⚡ Prevent tab discarding — Keeps the tab from being unloaded while a video is playing. ⚡ Save pause position to URL — Writes the paused timestamp into the URL's t= parameter so reloading resumes where you left off. 🎯 How to Use 1️⃣Turn on the features you want Each row is its own toggle: • Keep playing in the background • Picture-in-Picture (appears once background playback is on) • Auto-advance in the background • Auto-dismiss "still watching?" prompts • Prevent tab discarding • Save pause position to URL 💡 Note: Changes apply instantly — no page reload needed unless stated otherwise in the popup. 🔄 Stay Updated This extension is actively maintained. Your feedback on features, bugs, or suggestions is always welcome via the popup's buttons. ⚠️ Note This extension relies on YouTube's current interface and internal player APIs. Significant changes to YouTube's site may affect functionality — if you notice any issues, please let us know. 🔒 Privacy Your privacy matters. This extension does not collect or share your personal data. • All settings are stored locally in your browser. • A random, anonymous install id is generated locally to let the developer respond to your bug reports or feature requests — it is not linked to your name, email, Google account, or browsing history. • No video titles, watch history, or browsing activity are ever collected or transmitted. • You have full control over your data — uninstalling removes it immediately. 📄 Disclaimer This extension is not affiliated or endorsed by YouTube or Google. 📌 Changelog For release notes, check the changelog: https://scriptsmith.dev/en/youtube-background-player/changelog