Groove Music is a popular app for playing music on Windows 11. Sometimes, users experience an issue where the music stops playing when the app is minimized. This can be frustrating, especially if you want to listen to music while working on other tasks.
Thankfully, there are simple ways to fix this problem. Most solutions involve checking settings or updating the app and Windows. You don’t need to be an expert to follow these steps.
In this article, we will guide you through easy and detailed steps to ensure Groove Music keeps playing even when minimized. Each step is explained clearly to help you fix the issue quickly.
Let’s get started and get your music playing smoothly again.
Quick Note
Before you begin troubleshooting, please check the following:
- Make sure your Windows 11 is updated to the latest version.
- Check that Groove Music app is updated from the Microsoft Store.
- Verify that your audio drivers are working properly.
- Ensure that your device is not in Battery Saver mode, as this can pause background apps.
Step 1: Check Background Apps Permission
Windows 11 restricts some apps from running in the background to save power. If Groove Music is not allowed to run in the background, it will stop playing when minimized. Here’s how to check and fix this:
- Click on the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).
- Go to Apps > Apps & features.
- Scroll down and find Groove Music in the list, then click on it.
- Click on Advanced options.
- Under Background apps permissions, select Always or Power optimized.
- Close the settings and restart Groove Music.
Why this helps: Allowing Groove Music to run in the background ensures it does not pause or stop when the app window is minimized.
Step 2: Disable Battery Saver Mode
Battery Saver mode limits background activity to save power. If enabled, it can cause Groove Music to stop playing. To turn off Battery Saver:
- Click on the Battery icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner of the screen).
- If Battery Saver is on, click to turn it off.
- Alternatively, open Settings > System > Power & battery.
- Under Battery saver, toggle it off or adjust the threshold to a lower percentage.
Why this helps: Disabling Battery Saver allows Groove Music to run without restrictions in the background.
Step 3: Reset Groove Music App
If the problem persists, resetting the app can fix any corrupted settings or files. Resetting will clear app data but won’t delete your music files.
- Open Settings and navigate to Apps > Apps & features.
- Find Groove Music and click the three dots next to it.
- Select Advanced options.
- Scroll down and click Reset.
- Confirm by clicking Reset again in the pop-up.
- After reset, open Groove Music and test playback while minimizing.
Why this helps: Resetting removes any app settings that might be causing playback to stop.
Step 4: Update Audio Drivers
Outdated or faulty audio drivers can cause playback issues. Updating your drivers ensures compatibility with Groove Music and Windows 11.
- Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Sound, video and game controllers section.
- Right-click your audio device and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers.
- Follow the instructions if an update is found. Restart your PC afterward.
Why this helps: Updated drivers improve audio performance and fix bugs that could stop playback.
Alternative Method: Use Windows Troubleshooter
Windows 11 has a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix common audio problems.
- Open Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Find Playing Audio and click Run.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to detect and fix issues.
Why this helps: The troubleshooter automates problem detection and applies fixes, saving you time.
FAQs
Q1: Why does Groove Music stop playing when minimized?
This usually happens because Windows restricts background activity for apps to save power. Groove Music needs permission to run in the background.
Q2: Will resetting Groove Music delete my music files?
No. Resetting only clears the app’s settings and cache. Your music files stored on your device remain safe.
Q3: How do I know if my audio drivers need updating?
If you experience audio glitches, stopping playback, or no sound, your drivers might be outdated. Device Manager can help check for updates.
Q4: Can Battery Saver mode affect other apps besides Groove Music?
Yes, Battery Saver restricts many apps from running in the background to conserve energy, potentially affecting their performance.
Q5: What if Groove Music still stops after all these steps?
It might be an app bug or system issue. Consider reinstalling Groove Music or contacting Microsoft Support.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the steps and Groove Music still stops playing when minimized, here are your final options:
- Reinstall Groove Music: Uninstall the app from Settings > Apps and reinstall it from the Microsoft Store.
- Check for Windows Updates: Sometimes, system updates fix bugs affecting apps.
- Use Alternative Music Players: Consider apps like Spotify, VLC, or Winamp as temporary solutions.
- Contact Microsoft Support: Visit Microsoft Support for professional help.
Conclusion
Groove Music stopping playback when minimized is a common issue that can usually be fixed by adjusting background app permissions, disabling Battery Saver mode, resetting the app, or updating drivers. Following the step-by-step guide above will help you enjoy uninterrupted music on Windows 11.
Remember to keep your system and apps updated to avoid such problems in the future. If all else fails, reinstalling the app or seeking official support can resolve deeper issues.
With these simple tips, you can get back to enjoying your favorite tunes without interruptions.