Are you watching a video in the YouTube app and worried you may accidentally pause or stop it? Fortunately, it’s easy to lock the screen while watching YouTube videos on Android, iPhone, or iPad to prevent unwanted interruptions.

How to lock your screen during YouTube playback

Follow these device-specific methods to enable screen locking while your video plays uninterrupted.

Method 1: On iPhone and iPad

  • Open the Settings app.
  • TapAccessibility.
  • TapGuided Access and turn it on if not already enabled.
  • TapPasscode Settings.
  • TapSet Guided Access Passcode and enter your desired code.
  • Open the YouTube app and start the video you want to watch.
  • Press the side button three times (or the Home button on older models).
  • TapOptions.
  • Turn off the Touch toggle.
  • TapStart to lock the screen.
  • To exit, press the side or Home button three times and enter your Guided Access passcode.

Method 2: On Android

  • Download the Touch Lock app from the Google Play Store.
  • OpenTouch Lock.
  • Draw a pattern and tapOK.
  • Select Touch Lock and enableDisplay over other apps.
  • ToggleAutomatic on to activate during video playback.
  • EnablePermit usage access.
  • LaunchYouTube and start your video.
  • Swipe down to the notification bar and tap the Touch Lock icon to lock the screen.
  • To unlock, tap the Touch Lock icon twice and enter your pattern.
Pro tip: Set up Guided Access or Touch Lock once for repeated use, and test it on a short video first to ensure it works smoothly on your device.

Locking the screen during YouTube videos ensures uninterrupted viewing, especially during activities like cooking, exercising, or relaxing where accidental touches could pause your content. This feature is perfect for parents letting kids watch educational videos without interference.

By preventing disruptions, you maintain focus and immersion, saving time from restarting clips. It also extends battery life slightly by avoiding unintended interactions. Overall, it provides peace of mind for any hands-free scenario.