Microsoft Edge has introduced free YouTube premium features, including background playback and ad-free viewing, through its latest Canary version. Users can now enjoy uninterrupted content and listen to videos during multitasking – perks typically reserved for paid subscribers. The browser’s simple toggle controls in settings enable these capabilities across multiple streaming sites. Google’s potential response to this bold move could reshape how we access premium streaming features.
Microsoft Edge is throwing down the gauntlet against YouTube Premium by offering some of its most sought-after features completely free. In a move that’s bound to raise eyebrows at Google headquarters, Microsoft’s Android browser now facilitates background video playback and ad-free viewing without requiring YouTube’s $13.99 monthly subscription.
Microsoft’s Edge browser challenges YouTube Premium’s dominance by offering background playback and ad-free viewing at zero cost.
The latest version of Edge Canary for Android quietly introduced these game-changing features through a few simple toggles in the browser’s settings. Users can now continue listening to their favourite YouTube content as they switch apps or lock their devices – a privilege previously reserved for Premium subscribers. It’s like finding a secret passage that bypasses YouTube’s paywall, and Microsoft just handed out the map. The new feature supports playback on other websites beyond just YouTube. The browser’s powerful built-in ad blocker eliminates intrusive video advertisements automatically.
This development marks another chapter in the long-running rivalry between Microsoft and Google, reminiscent of their Windows Phone era clash when Google refused to develop YouTube apps for Microsoft’s mobile platform. Microsoft’s response? They built their own YouTube app with premium features, which Google swiftly blocked. History, it seems, has a way of rhyming.
Getting these premium-like features up and running is surprisingly straightforward. After downloading Edge Canary, users need only visit “edge://flags” to activate video background play and toggle on background audio playback in Site Settings.
The browser’s built-in ad blocker serves as icing on the cake, eliminating those bothersome mid-video interruptions that drive viewers to consider Premium subscriptions.
However, this workaround isn’t without its limitations. The background playback feature only functions within Edge’s browser environment, not through YouTube’s native app. Moreover, autoplay capabilities for next videos in playlists remain unavailable, requiring manual intervention to keep the content flowing.
The implications for YouTube Premium’s subscription model could be significant. With Microsoft fundamentally offering two of Premium’s main selling points – ad-free viewing and background playback – at no cost, Google might find itself forced to reassess its strategy or take defensive action.
It wouldn’t be the first time these tech giants have butted heads over feature accessibility. For now, this clever hack represents a win for budget-conscious consumers who’ve long desired Premium features without the premium price tag.
Whether Google will respond with technical countermeasures or simply tolerate this browser-based workaround remains to be seen. One thing’s certain: Microsoft’s latest move proves that sometimes the best things in life – or at least on YouTube – can be free.
Final Thoughts
Microsoft Edge’s recent integration of YouTube Premium features at no cost signifies a notable evolution in browser competition. As users consider Edge as their primary browser, Home Computer Technician can assist in optimizing your experience with this new functionality. Our expertise ensures that you can make the most of these premium features seamlessly. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your online content consumption. Visit our contact us page to get in touch and discover how we can help you!
