Are you tired of constantly switching between apps or pausing your podcasts every time you need to do something else on your device? Do you wish you could multitask while still enjoying your favorite shows? You’re not alone! Many podcast enthusiasts struggle with keeping their favorite podcasts playing in the background, but fear not, dear listener, for we’ve got you covered.
Why Background Playback Matters
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of keeping podcasts playing in the background, let’s talk about why it’s so important. Background playback is essential for multitaskers. Imagine being able to continue listening to your favorite podcast while responding to emails, browsing social media, or even playing games – it’s a game-changer! With background playback, you can make the most of your time, staying engaged with your favorite shows while still getting things done.
Furthermore, background playback enhances the overall listening experience. You can seamlessly switch between tasks without having to constantly pause and resume your podcast. This removes the distraction of having to manually control your podcast app, allowing you to focus on the content itself.
Native Background Playback: The Ideal Solution
The most convenient way to keep podcasts playing in the background is to use a podcast app that supports native background playback. Native background playback means the app can continue playing audio even when you’re not actively using it. This is typically achieved through a feature called “background audio” or “background playback” within the app settings.
Some popular podcast apps that offer native background playback include:
- Apple Podcasts (for iOS devices)
- Google Podcasts (for Android devices)
- Spotify
- Castbox
- Overcast
To enable native background playback in your preferred podcast app, follow these general steps:
- Open the app and navigate to the settings or preferences section.
- Look for the “background audio” or “background playback” option and toggle it on.
That’s it! From now on, your podcast should continue playing even when you’re not actively using the app.
Workarounds For Limited Background Playback
What if your favorite podcast app doesn’t support native background playback? Fear not, dear listener, for there are workarounds to keep your podcasts playing in the background.
Using Screen Recording Or Streaming Apps
One creative solution is to use screen recording or streaming apps that can continue playing audio even when you’re not actively using them. These apps essentially “record” or “stream” the audio from your podcast app, allowing it to continue playing in the background.
Some popular screen recording and streaming apps include:
- OBS Studio (for desktop devices)
- ScreenFlow (for Mac devices)
- AZ Screen Recorder (for Android devices)
- Screen Recorder (for iOS devices)
To use screen recording or streaming apps for background playback:
- Open the recording or streaming app and start a new session.
- Switch to your podcast app and start playing your desired podcast.
- The recording or streaming app will capture the audio and continue playing it in the background.
Using Third-Party Background Playback Apps
Another option is to use third-party background playback apps that can “hook” into your podcast app and continue playing the audio even when you’re not actively using it. These apps essentially “hijack” the audio from your podcast app, allowing it to play in the background.
Some popular third-party background playback apps include:
- Background Audio (for Android devices)
- AudioBridge (for iOS devices)
To use third-party background playback apps:
- Open the background playback app and grant it the necessary permissions.
- Switch to your podcast app and start playing your desired podcast.
- The background playback app will capture the audio and continue playing it in the background.
Device-Specific Solutions
If you’re still having trouble keeping your podcasts playing in the background, don’t worry! There are device-specific solutions that can help.
IOS Devices
For iOS devices, you can use Siri Shortcuts to create a custom solution for background playback. Siri Shortcuts allow you to automate specific tasks on your device, including background audio playback.
To create a Siri Shortcut for background playback:
- Open the Shortcuts app and create a new shortcut.
- Add the “Get Contents of Podcast” action to capture the audio from your podcast app.
- Add the “Play Audio” action to play the captured audio in the background.
Android Devices
For Android devices, you can use Android’s built-in “Picture in Picture” (PiP) mode to keep your podcasts playing in the background. PiP mode allows you to minimize your podcast app and continue playing the audio while using other apps.
To enable PiP mode on your Android device:
- Open your podcast app and start playing your desired podcast.
- Tap the “Home” button to minimize the app.
- The audio should continue playing in the background, allowing you to use other apps.
Conclusion
Keeping podcasts playing in the background is a crucial aspect of enhancing the overall listening experience. By using native background playback, workarounds, or device-specific solutions, you can multitask while still enjoying your favorite shows. Remember, background playback is a game-changer for multitaskers, and with these solutions, you can make the most of your time.
So, go ahead and explore the world of background playback. Find the solution that works best for you, and never stop listening to your favorite podcasts!
What Are The Benefits Of Listening To Podcasts In The Background?
Listening to podcasts in the background allows you to multitask and make the most of your time. You can continue to absorb valuable information, entertainment, or inspiration while doing other tasks such as household chores, exercising, or even working. This way, you can stay productive and engaged without having to dedicate a specific time slot to listening to podcasts.
Moreover, background listening can help you retain information better. When you’re not actively focusing on the podcast, your subconscious mind can still absorb the information, and you may find yourself recalling interesting facts or insights later on. Additionally, listening to podcasts in the background can be a great way to relax and unwind, providing a calming and soothing atmosphere while you’re busy with other activities.
How Do I Keep Podcasts Playing In The Background On My IPhone?
To keep podcasts playing in the background on your iPhone, you need to ensure that your phone is updated to the latest iOS version. Then, open the Podcasts app, start playing a podcast, and swipe up to minimize the app. The podcast will continue to play in the background while you use other apps or lock your screen. You can also use Siri to control playback by saying “Hey Siri, play/pause/stop” or use the Control Center to access playback controls.
Additionally, you can use third-party podcast apps that offer background playback functionality, such as Overcast, Castro, or Pocket Casts. These apps often provide more features and customization options than the native Podcasts app, including the ability to customize playback speed, trim silence, and create playlists.
Can I Listen To Podcasts In The Background On An Android Device?
Yes, you can listen to podcasts in the background on an Android device. Most podcast apps on Android, including Google Podcasts, Spotify, and third-party apps like Podcast Addict or Antenna Pod, support background playback. To listen to podcasts in the background, start playing a podcast, then press the home button or navigate away from the app. The podcast should continue to play in the background.
Some Android devices may require you to configure the settings to allow background playback. You can do this by going to the app’s settings, then selecting “Background playback” or “Allow background audio” to enable this feature. You can also use Android’s built-in features, such as split-screen mode or picture-in-picture mode, to keep the podcast playing in the background while you use other apps.
How Do I Prevent Podcasts From Stopping Playback When My Screen Locks?
To prevent podcasts from stopping playback when your screen locks, you need to configure your phone’s settings. On iPhone, go to Settings > Podcasts, and toggle on “Keep Playing” under the “Background Playback” section. This will allow podcasts to continue playing in the background even when your screen is locked.
On Android devices, the process may vary depending on the app and device you’re using. In general, you can go to the app’s settings, then select “Background playback” or “Allow background audio,” and toggle on “Keep playing when screen is off” or a similar option. This will ensure that the podcast continues to play in the background even when your screen is locked or turned off.
Can I Listen To Podcasts In The Background On My Computer?
Yes, you can listen to podcasts in the background on your computer using various methods. One way is to use a podcast app or software that supports background playback, such as iTunes, Spotify, or Google Podcasts. You can also use a web browser to listen to podcasts on websites that offer playback functionality, such as Anchor, Podbean, or Stitcher.
Another option is to use a browser extension or add-on, such as Podcastifier or Podbay, which allows you to listen to podcasts in the background while browsing the web. You can also use a media player software like VLC or KMPlayer to play podcasts in the background.
How Do I Control Playback When Listening To Podcasts In The Background?
When listening to podcasts in the background, you can control playback using various methods. On iPhone, you can use Siri to control playback by saying “Hey Siri, play/pause/stop” or use the Control Center to access playback controls. On Android devices, you can use the notification shade or the app’s widget to control playback.
Alternatively, you can use voice commands, such as “Ok Google, play/pause/stop” on Android devices or “Hey Siri, play/pause/stop” on iPhone, to control playback. You can also use the app’s settings to customize playback controls, such as setting up custom gestures or button shortcuts, to control playback quickly and easily.
Are There Any Limitations To Listening To Podcasts In The Background?
Yes, there are some limitations to listening to podcasts in the background. One limitation is battery life, as constant audio playback can drain your device’s battery faster. Another limitation is data usage, as streaming podcasts can consume a significant amount of mobile data, especially if you’re not connected to Wi-Fi.
Additionally, some apps or devices may have limitations on background playback, such as stopping playback after a certain period of inactivity or limiting the number of episodes that can be downloaded for offline listening. Furthermore, some podcasts may not be optimized for background listening, with distracting audio effects or poor sound quality that can be distracting or unpleasant when listened to in the background.