YouTube Enables Desktop Users to Download Music Offline

YouTube Music is expanding its services by introducing offline downloads for its web app, a feature previously exclusive to mobile devices. This move aims to enhance user experience by providing more flexibility in accessing music.

As reported by 9to5Google, Google has been testing offline downloads for its music streaming service on the web app, with a wider rollout observed recently. Users are starting to notice a message next to the Library tab, indicating the new capability to download music for offline listening.

To save music offline using YouTube Music's web app, users can follow these simple steps:

1. Navigate to an album or single's page.
2. Look for the download button located between the "Save to library" and three-dot overflow menu options.
3. Click on the download option to save the album or single.

Downloaded content on the web will have its own "Downloads" tab within the user's library, allowing for easy organization by playlists, podcasts, songs, or albums. However, there are important considerations to keep in mind:

1. Download Limit: Offline downloads on the web app will count towards YouTube Music's 10-device download limit.
2. Expiration: Downloaded content will expire if the device is not connected to the internet at least once every 30 days.

This update brings long-awaited offline download functionality to the YouTube Music web app, particularly benefiting users who primarily access the service on desktops or laptops. It eliminates the need to rely solely on the mobile app for offline listening, enhancing convenience and accessibility.

However, it's unclear if offline downloads for podcasts extend to non-subscribers. Nonetheless, this expansion reflects Google's commitment to improving YouTube Music and catering to a wider range of user needs, whether on mobile or desktop.

Moreover, this update coincides with Google's decision to discontinue Google Podcasts, with podcasts now integrated into YouTube Music. Users in the US are advised to migrate their data or explore alternative podcast apps.