Is it possible to download files while not having the app in focus?

I'm frustrated that I can't download files in the app unless I keep the screen on. This is especially frustrating because the app automatically closes upon taking the headset off or covering the sensors. I've enabled "web view" (?), but this seems to have had no effect. The files I'm looking at are far too large to simply stare at and wait. Please tell me there's a simple fix.