NewPipe is a free, open-source, and lightweight application for Android that serves as an alternative front-end for various streaming services, including YouTube, PeerTube, SoundCloud, and Bandcamp. It is designed with a strong focus on privacy and performance, offering a feature-rich experience without requiring a service account.
The application works by fetching data directly from the service's website or public APIs. This method allows you to use many features, such as subscriptions, without needing to log in with an account (e.g., a Google account for YouTube). Furthermore, NewPipe does not use any proprietary frameworks like Google Play Services, ensuring it is a completely independent and privacy-respecting tool.
NewPipe provides a comprehensive set of features for media consumption:
- Flexible Video Playback: Watch videos in resolutions up to 4K, use the popup mode (floating player) to multitask, or listen to audio in the background with the screen off to save data and battery.
- Account-Free Subscriptions: Subscribe to channels, get notifications about new videos, and organize your subscriptions into groups for easier management, all without an account.
- Downloading Content: Save videos, audio-only streams, and subtitles directly to your device for offline access.
- Local Management: Keep track of your watch history and create and edit local playlists that are saved only on your device, independent of any online service.
- Extensive Search and Control: Use powerful search functions to find videos, channels, and playlists. You also have control to show or hide various elements like video descriptions, tags, related videos, and comments.
- Broad Service Support: Works with YouTube, PeerTube, SoundCloud, Bandcamp, media.ccc.de, and potentially others.
NewPipe is an excellent solution for Android users who prioritize privacy, want an ad-free experience, and desire advanced features like background playback and downloading for their online media.