Galaxy device screen turns dark when playing YouTube content

If your Galaxy device's screen turns dark while playing content on the YouTube app, you're not alone. Follow these steps to troubleshoot and ensure your device is up to date.
A purple Galaxy S26 on a wooden table with a very dark screen while playing a YouTube video.
A purple Galaxy S26 on a wooden table with a very dark screen while playing a YouTube video.

Galaxy device screen turns dark when playing YouTube content

1

Close the YouTube app.

Open the Recent apps menu:

  • Buttons: Touch and hold the Recents button until the Recent apps menu appears.
    A Galaxy S26 home screen with the recent apps button highlighted in a blue circle.
  • Swipe gesture: Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open the Recent apps menu.
     

Next, swipe left or right to find the YouTube app, and swipe up on it to close it. 

Note
Options will vary depending on your Navigation bar settings. 
2

Open the YouTube app.

Tap the YouTube icon from the Home screen or the Apps tray to reopen it.

A Galaxy S26 screen showing a home page with the YouTube app icon highlighted in a blue circle. 

3

Check for app updates.

Open the Google Play Store app, tap your profile icon, and then tap Manage apps & device. Under the 'Updates available' section, update the YouTube app if an update is available. If no update is available, please continue to check back later for the latest version.

A Galaxy S26 screen showing the downloads page with a YouTube app update available and an Update all button highlighted in blue. 

Note
Ensure your apps are always up to date through the Google Play Store. The update schedule may vary depending on your region or carrier.
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