Have you ever found yourself wanting to listen to your favorite Netflix show while doing other things on your Android device? Maybe you want to catch up on a series while browsing social media or working on a project. Unfortunately, the Netflix app on Android doesn’t allow you to play shows in the background like some other media apps do. But don’t worry, there are workarounds that can help you achieve this functionality. In this blog post, we will explore different methods that will allow you to play Netflix on the background on your Android device.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Playing Netflix on the Background on Android
Netflix is a popular streaming service that offers a vast library of TV shows and movies. While the Android app provides a seamless streaming experience, it falls short in one aspect – it does not allow you to play content on the background. When you switch to another app or lock your screen, the Netflix playback automatically pauses.
This limitation can be frustrating, especially if you want to listen to the audio of a Netflix show or movie without needing to have the app in the foreground. However, there are several methods you can try to overcome this challenge and enjoy Netflix on the background of your Android device.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before we jump into the methods, there are a few things you should prepare for to ensure smooth execution. First, you will need a stable internet connection to stream Netflix content. It’s also important to have the latest version of the Netflix app installed on your Android device.
Additionally, some methods may require you to download third-party apps or make changes to your Android device’s settings. Make sure you are comfortable with these requirements and follow the instructions carefully to avoid any issues.
Now, let’s explore the methods that will allow you to play Netflix on the background on your Android device.
Method 1: Using the Split Screen Feature
Split-screen is a native feature available on most Android devices that allows you to use two apps simultaneously. Here’s how you can use it to play Netflix on the background:
1. Open the Netflix app on your Android device.
2. Press the recent apps button (usually a square or rectangle icon) on your device’s navigation bar to view the list of currently open apps.
3. Look for the Netflix app in the list and tap and hold on its icon.
4. Drag the Netflix app to the upper half of the screen until it snaps into place.
5. The lower half of the screen will show the other apps that are currently open on your device. Select the app you want to use while Netflix plays in the background.
6. Adjust the size of the app screens by dragging the divider line between them up or down.
7. You can now listen to the audio of the Netflix show while using another app on the lower half of the screen.
Pros:
1. Allows you to simultaneously use Netflix and another app on the same screen.
2. Native feature with no need for third-party apps.
3. You can easily adjust the size of the app screens to suit your preference.
Cons:
1. Limited screen space for both apps.
2. The split-screen feature may not be available on some older or budget Android devices.
Method 2: Via Picture-in-Picture (PiP) Mode
Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode is another native feature available on some Android devices that allows you to continue watching videos in a small floating window while using other apps. Here’s how you can enable and use PiP mode with Netflix:
1. Open the Netflix app on your Android device.
2. Start playing a TV show or movie of your choice.
3. Swipe up or press the home button to minimize the Netflix app.
4. The Netflix video will now appear in a small floating window on your screen.
5. You can drag the window to your preferred location on the screen and resize it by using pinch gestures.
6. Open any other app and continue using your Android device while Netflix plays in the floating window.
Pros:
1. Allows you to watch Netflix in a small floating window while using other apps.
2. Native feature with no need for additional apps.
3. Customizable window size and position.
Cons:
1. PiP mode may not be available on all Android devices or versions.
2. Some Android devices may have limitations on app compatibility with PiP mode.
Method 3: Using Third-Party Apps
If the native features of your Android device don’t support playing Netflix on the background, you can turn to third-party apps that offer this functionality. One such app is ‘Floating Apps Free – Multitasking.’
Here’s how you can use the ‘Floating Apps Free – Multitasking’ app to play Netflix on the background:
1. Install the ‘Floating Apps Free – Multitasking’ app from the Google Play Store.
2. Open the app and grant the necessary permissions.
3. In the app’s main menu, tap on ‘Add app’ and select ‘Netflix.’
4. The Netflix app will now appear as a floating bubble on your screen.
5. Tap on the Netflix bubble to open the app in a resizable window.
6. Press the home button to minimize the ‘Floating Apps Free – Multitasking’ app.
7. You can now use other apps while the Netflix video plays in the floating window.
Pros:
1. Allows you to play Netflix on the background using a third-party app.
2. Provides a floating window that can be resized and positioned according to your preference.
3. Offers additional multitasking features for other apps as well.
Cons:
1. Requires the installation of a third-party app, which may have its own limitations and compatibility issues.
2. Free version may include ads or limited functionality.
Method 4: Utilizing Background Audio Apps
Another way to play Netflix on the background on your Android device is by using background audio apps. These apps are specifically designed to play audio from video sources while allowing you to use other apps or lock your screen. One popular background audio app is ‘AudioPocket for Netflix.’
Here’s how you can use ‘AudioPocket for Netflix’ to play Netflix on the background:
1. Install the ‘AudioPocket for Netflix’ app from the Google Play Store.
2. Open the Netflix app on your Android device and start playing a TV show or movie.
3. Open the ‘AudioPocket for Netflix’ app and tap on the ‘Play’ button.
4. The audio from the Netflix video will start playing in the background, allowing you to use other apps or lock your screen.
5. You can control the playback and volume of the background audio from the notification shade or the ‘AudioPocket for Netflix’ app.
Pros:
1. Specifically designed for playing audio from Netflix on the background.
2. Allows you to use other apps or lock the screen while listening to Netflix audio.
3. Offers playback control and volume adjustment.
Cons:
1. Requires the installation of a third-party app, which may have its own limitations and compatibility issues.
2. Free version may include ads or limited functionality.
Why Can’t I Play Netflix on the Background?
There are several reasons why the Netflix app on Android does not allow you to play content on the background. Some of the main reasons include:
1. DRM Restrictions: Netflix uses Digital Rights Management (DRM) to protect its content from unauthorized distribution. These DRM restrictions prevent the app from playing content on the background to ensure proper control and compliance.
2. Licensing Agreements: Netflix acquires the rights to stream TV shows and movies from various content providers. The licensing agreements between Netflix and content providers may include restrictions that prevent background playback. These agreements are in place to protect the rights and value of the content.
3. User Experience Considerations: Netflix focuses on providing an optimized user experience for its users. By pausing playback when the app is not in the foreground, Netflix ensures that users have full control over their viewing experience and can fully immerse themselves in the content.
While these reasons may be valid from a content distribution and user experience perspective, they can be limiting for users who want to enjoy Netflix audio in the background. However, the methods mentioned above offer workarounds to overcome these limitations and provide you with the desired functionality.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to enhance your experience when playing Netflix on the background:
1. Use headphones or Bluetooth speakers for better audio quality and privacy.
2. Keep your Android device’s software and apps updated to ensure compatibility with the methods mentioned.
3. Experiment with different methods and find the one that suits your preferences and device capabilities the best.
5 FAQs about Playing Netflix on the Background on Android
Q1: Can I use these methods on all Android devices?
A: The availability of the native features and compatibility with third-party apps may vary depending on the Android device and its version. It’s recommended to check the specific device model and software version for compatibility before trying these methods.
Q2: Do these methods violate Netflix’s terms and conditions?
A: While using these methods does not involve any hacking or unauthorized access to Netflix’s content, it’s important to note that they are not officially supported by Netflix. However, they do not violate Netflix’s terms and conditions as long as you are using the app and its features within the intended purposes.
Q3: Are there any risks associated with using third-party apps for background playback?
A: Third-party apps may have privacy and security risks associated with them. It’s important to download apps from trusted sources and read user reviews before installing them. Be cautious about granting permissions to apps that request access to sensitive information or device features.
Q4: Will using these methods consume more battery?
A: Playing Netflix on the background may have a slightly higher battery consumption compared to regular playback. However, the difference in battery usage should not be significant unless you use the background playback for extended periods.
Q5: Can I use these methods on iOS devices?
A: The methods mentioned in this blog post are specific to Android devices. However, iOS devices have their own set of features and apps that may allow you to achieve similar functionality. It’s recommended to search for methods specific to iOS devices if you’re using an iPhone or iPad.
In Conclusion
Playing Netflix on the background on Android devices may not be supported by the official app, but there are various methods you can try to achieve this functionality. From using split-screen and PiP modes to utilizing third-party apps and background audio apps, each method offers its own advantages and limitations.
Make sure to consider the pros and cons of each method, check the compatibility with your device, and follow the instructions carefully for the best experience. With these workarounds, you can now enjoy the audio of your favorite Netflix shows and movies while multitasking on your Android device.