title：How to Play YouTube Audio With Locked Phone (Free Trick)

content：Why Your YouTube Audio Stops When You Lock Your Phone

Have you ever been listening to your favorite YouTube song, only to have it cut off the moment you lock your phone or switch apps? It’s a common frustration—especially if you want to enjoy music while doing other things. The Technical Expert Papa channel shares a free, easy trick to fix this, and I’m breaking it down here with extra tips to make it work for you.

content：Core Concept: Picture-in-Picture (PiP) Mode Explained

The trick relies on Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode, a feature available on Android 8.0 and above (a widely accepted fact from Android’s official documentation). PiP keeps the video stream active in a small window, even when you leave the YouTube app. This means the audio continues playing—even if you lock your phone.

The video doesn’t explicitly name PiP, but the "shot pack" option mentioned is likely a translation of this feature. It’s important to note that PiP must be enabled in your phone’s settings for this trick to work.

content：Step-by-Step Trick to Keep Audio Playing

Let’s turn the video’s instructions into a clear, actionable guide:

Step 1: Play Your Favorite Song

Open the YouTube app and start playing any song or audio content you want.

Step 2: Minimize the YouTube App

Swipe up from the bottom of your screen (or press the back button) to minimize the YouTube app. This will take you to your home screen or recent apps.

Step 3: Activate PiP Mode

Look for the PiP icon (usually a small square with an arrow) or the "shot" option mentioned in the video. Tap it to enable PiP. The video will shrink into a small window on your screen.

Step 4: Lock Your Phone

Now, lock your phone. The audio will keep playing—no interruptions!

Pro Tip: If PiP doesn’t work, check your settings: Go to Settings > Apps > YouTube > Special App Access > Picture-in-Picture, and toggle it on.

content：Beyond the Trick: Alternatives & Insights

The video focuses on the free PiP trick, but there are other options:

YouTube Premium: For $11.99/month, you get ad-free playback, background play, and offline downloads. It’s a great choice if you want more features.
Third-Party Apps: For iOS users (where PiP for YouTube isn’t natively supported without Premium), apps like Musi or Documents by Readdle can play YouTube audio in the background.

Exclusive Insight: This trick works best for Android users. iOS users may need to use workarounds or subscribe to Premium for seamless background play.

content：Toolbox & Action Guide

Immediate Action Checklist

Enable PiP for YouTube in your phone settings.
Play a YouTube song and minimize the app.
Activate PiP mode before locking your phone.

Resource Recommendations

YouTube Premium: Ideal for users who want ad-free, background play without tricks.
Musi App: A free alternative for iOS users to play YouTube audio in the background.

content：Final Thoughts

This free trick lets you enjoy YouTube audio even when your phone is locked—no paid subscriptions needed. It’s simple, effective, and perfect for anyone who loves listening to music or podcasts on YouTube.

Question: Which step did you find easiest or most challenging to follow? Share your experience in the comments below!

Note: Always ensure you’re using the latest version of YouTube and your phone’s OS to get the best results with this trick.