How to Watch YouTube and Play Games on PS5: A Comprehensive Guide to Multitasking in the Digital Age

The PlayStation 5 (PS5) is not just a gaming console; it’s a multimedia powerhouse that allows users to seamlessly switch between gaming and entertainment. One of the most common questions among PS5 users is how to watch YouTube and play games simultaneously. While the PS5 doesn’t natively support multitasking in the traditional sense, there are several workarounds and strategies that can help you achieve this. In this article, we’ll explore various methods to watch YouTube and play games on your PS5, along with some tips to enhance your overall experience.
1. Understanding the PS5’s Multitasking Capabilities
Before diving into the specifics, it’s essential to understand the PS5’s multitasking capabilities. Unlike a PC, the PS5 is designed primarily for gaming, which means it doesn’t support running multiple apps simultaneously in the background. However, Sony has integrated some features that allow users to switch between apps quickly, making it easier to multitask to some extent.
Quick Switching Between Apps
The PS5’s user interface (UI) is designed for speed and efficiency. You can quickly switch between games and apps by pressing the PS button on your controller. This brings up the Control Center, where you can access recently used apps and games. While this doesn’t allow for true multitasking, it does make it easier to pause your game, watch a YouTube video, and then return to your game without losing progress.
Picture-in-Picture (PiP) Mode
Some users have reported success with using Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode on their TVs or monitors to watch YouTube while gaming. This involves using an external device, such as a smartphone or tablet, to stream YouTube and then displaying it in a small window on your screen while you play your game. While this isn’t a native feature of the PS5, it’s a creative workaround that can enhance your multitasking experience.
2. Using the YouTube App on PS5
The PS5 comes with a built-in YouTube app, which allows you to watch videos directly on your console. While you can’t play a game and watch YouTube simultaneously, you can quickly switch between the two. Here’s how to make the most of the YouTube app on your PS5:
Accessing the YouTube App
To access the YouTube app, navigate to the Media section on your PS5’s home screen. From there, you can launch the app and sign in to your YouTube account. Once signed in, you can browse and watch videos just like you would on any other device.
Using Voice Commands
The PS5’s DualSense controller features a built-in microphone, which allows you to use voice commands to control the YouTube app. For example, you can say “Hey PlayStation, play YouTube” to launch the app or “Hey PlayStation, search for [video title]” to find specific content. This can save you time and make it easier to switch between gaming and watching videos.
Creating Playlists
If you frequently watch YouTube videos on your PS5, consider creating playlists. This allows you to queue up multiple videos, so you don’t have to search for new content every time you switch back to the app. You can create playlists directly within the YouTube app or on your computer and then access them on your PS5.
3. Streaming YouTube from Another Device
If you want to watch YouTube while playing a game on your PS5, one of the best options is to stream YouTube from another device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Here’s how you can do it:
Using a Smartphone or Tablet
Most modern smartphones and tablets have the ability to stream YouTube videos. You can use your device to watch YouTube while playing a game on your PS5. Simply place your device next to your TV or monitor and adjust the volume so that it doesn’t interfere with your game audio.
Using a Laptop or PC
If you have a laptop or PC, you can use it to stream YouTube while gaming on your PS5. Place your laptop next to your TV or monitor and adjust the screen size and volume to your preference. This method allows you to watch YouTube in a larger window, making it easier to follow along with the content.
Using a Second Monitor
If you have a second monitor, you can connect it to your PS5 and use it to watch YouTube while gaming. This requires an HDMI splitter or a second HDMI port on your TV or monitor. Once connected, you can display the YouTube app on one screen and your game on the other, allowing you to multitask more effectively.
4. Using External Streaming Devices
Another option for watching YouTube while gaming on your PS5 is to use an external streaming device, such as a Chromecast, Roku, or Apple TV. These devices allow you to stream YouTube directly to your TV or monitor, freeing up your PS5 for gaming.
Setting Up an External Streaming Device
To set up an external streaming device, connect it to your TV or monitor using an HDMI cable. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect the device to your Wi-Fi network and sign in to your YouTube account. Once set up, you can use the device to stream YouTube while gaming on your PS5.
Using the PS5’s HDMI-CEC Feature
The PS5 supports HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control), which allows you to control multiple devices with a single remote. If your TV or monitor supports HDMI-CEC, you can use your PS5 controller to control your external streaming device. This makes it easier to switch between gaming and watching YouTube without needing multiple remotes.
5. Enhancing Your Multitasking Experience
While the PS5 doesn’t natively support multitasking, there are several ways to enhance your experience and make it easier to watch YouTube while gaming. Here are some tips:
Using Headphones
If you’re watching YouTube on a separate device while gaming, consider using headphones for one of the activities. For example, you can use headphones to listen to your game audio while watching YouTube on your TV or monitor. This allows you to enjoy both activities without disturbing others or experiencing audio overlap.
Adjusting Screen Brightness and Volume
To avoid distractions while gaming, adjust the screen brightness and volume of your YouTube video. Lowering the brightness and volume can help you focus on your game while still being able to follow along with the video.
Using a Multitasking App
Some third-party apps allow you to multitask on your PS5 by splitting the screen or displaying multiple apps simultaneously. While these apps are not officially supported by Sony, they can provide a workaround for users who want to watch YouTube while gaming. Be sure to research and read reviews before downloading any third-party apps to ensure they are safe and reliable.
6. Future Updates and Possibilities
Sony is constantly updating the PS5’s software, and future updates may include enhanced multitasking features. For example, Sony could introduce a Picture-in-Picture mode that allows users to watch YouTube or other streaming services while gaming. Additionally, the PS5’s hardware is capable of supporting more advanced multitasking, so it’s possible that future updates will unlock new possibilities for users.
Community Feedback
The PS5 community is vocal about their desires for new features, and multitasking is a common request. By providing feedback to Sony through official channels, such as the PlayStation Blog or social media, users can help influence future updates and improvements.
Exploring Third-Party Solutions
As the PS5 continues to evolve, third-party developers may create solutions that enhance multitasking capabilities. Keep an eye on the PlayStation Store for new apps and tools that could make it easier to watch YouTube and play games simultaneously.
Conclusion
While the PS5 doesn’t natively support watching YouTube and playing games at the same time, there are several workarounds and strategies that can help you achieve this. Whether you’re using the YouTube app on your PS5, streaming from another device, or using an external streaming device, there are plenty of options to enhance your multitasking experience. As Sony continues to update the PS5’s software, we may see new features that make multitasking even easier. In the meantime, experiment with the methods outlined in this article to find the solution that works best for you.
Related Q&A
Q: Can I watch YouTube and play games at the same time on PS5?
A: The PS5 does not natively support running multiple apps simultaneously, so you cannot watch YouTube and play games at the same time. However, you can quickly switch between the YouTube app and your game using the PS5’s Control Center.
Q: Can I use Picture-in-Picture mode on my TV to watch YouTube while gaming on PS5?
A: Some TVs and monitors support Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode, which allows you to display a small window of another input (such as a streaming device) while gaming on your PS5. This is not a native feature of the PS5 but can be achieved with the right setup.
Q: Are there any third-party apps that allow multitasking on PS5?
A: While there are no official third-party apps that allow multitasking on the PS5, some users have reported success with certain apps that split the screen or display multiple apps simultaneously. Be cautious when downloading third-party apps and ensure they are from reputable sources.
Q: Will Sony add multitasking features to the PS5 in the future?
A: Sony is constantly updating the PS5’s software, and future updates may include enhanced multitasking features. Community feedback and demand for such features could influence Sony’s decision to add them in future updates.