Microsoft Edge finally has an edge: Background play and no ads on YouTube
Edge Canary for Android now offers a built-in ad blocker that works on YouTube as well
Microsoft is testing a feature in its Edge Canary browser for Android that enables YouTube videos to play in the background without a YouTube Premium subscription, potentially undermining one of Google's key paid services.
Technology enthusiast Leopeva64 flagged the update on X, noting a new "Video Background Play" option under experimental settings. Once enabled, the function lets users continue streaming videos while switching tabs, opening other apps, or locking their device. The feature also extends beyond YouTube to other video sites, according to Android Authority.
Edge Canary additionally prompts users on first launch to activate a built-in ad blocker, which suppresses advertising across most sites, including YouTube. Together, the two tools mimic key benefits of YouTube Premium, a $14 monthly service that offers ad-free viewing and background playback.
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The development recalls a 2013 clash between the two companies, when Microsoft's YouTube app for Windows Phone allowed downloads and blocked ads, leading Google to suspend it for violating its terms of service. It remains unclear if the functions will make it into the stable version of Edge or whether Google will intervene.
How to enable background playback in Edge Canary (Android)
- Install Edge Canary - Download Microsoft Edge Canary from the Play Store or official channels.
- Enable the experimental flag
- Open the app and type edge://flags in the address bar.
- Search for "Video Background Play."
- Set it to Enabled and restart the browser.
- Turn on background playback in settings
- Open Edge's menu (bottom-right).
- Go to Settings → Site settings → Background video playback.
- Switch the toggle on.
- Test it
- Open youtube.com in Edge.
- Start a video and then switch apps, open another tab, or lock your phone.
- The audio should keep playing in the background.
- Optional: Enable ad blocker
- On first launch, Edge Canary may show: "Turn on Ad blocker to watch videos without interrupting ads."
- Tap Turn On to block most ads, including on YouTube.
Because Edge Canary is experimental, features may change or be withdrawn without notice. Google could also take steps to restrict background playback or ad blocking.
