How to Use Picture in Picture on Your Device

Picture in Picture (PiP) is a handy feature that allows you to watch videos in a small, resizable window while continuing to browse or work on other apps. This functionality enhances multitasking, letting you keep an eye on videos without switching back and forth between screens. Whether you’re watching YouTube, streaming movies, or following a tutorial, mastering PiP can make your digital experience more efficient and enjoyable. Before diving in, ensure your device and app support PiP mode, as compatibility varies across platforms and applications.

What You’ll Need

• A compatible device (smartphone, tablet, or computer) running a supported operating system (Android 8.0+, iOS 14+, Windows 10, macOS Catalina+)
• A supported app or browser that enables PiP mode (e.g., YouTube app, VLC, Chrome browser)
• Basic familiarity with your device’s settings and navigation

Step-by-Step

1. Open the video you want to watch in a supported app or browser. For example, launch YouTube or open a video in Chrome.
2. Start playing the video. Ensure the video is actively playing before initiating PiP mode.
3. Activate Picture in Picture mode:
   • On Android: Tap the Home button or use the gesture to go to the home screen while the video is playing. Some apps also have a PiP icon (a small rectangle with an arrow); tap it to enable PiP.
   • On iOS: While the video is playing in Safari or a supported app, tap the Home button or swipe up to go to the home screen. The video should automatically shrink into a PiP window. If not, tap the PiP icon (if available) or use the Control Center.
   • On Windows: Right-click the video and select “Picture-in-Picture” if the app supports it, or click the PiP icon in the video controls.
   • On macOS: Right-click the video and select “Enter Picture in Picture” from the context menu, or click the PiP button if available.
4. Resize and move the PiP window: Drag the small video window to your preferred location on the screen. Resize it by dragging its edges or corners.
5. Continue your activity: Switch to other apps, browse the web, or work on documents while the video plays in the PiP window.
6. To exit PiP mode, do one of the following:
   • Tap the PiP window and then tap the “Close” button or icon.
   • Return to the app or video that originally played the video, which should automatically restore the full view.
   • On some devices, simply closing the app or navigating away will end PiP mode.

Common Mistakes

• Trying to use PiP with unsupported apps or videos. Not all apps or videos support PiP mode; verify compatibility first.
• Forgetting to enable PiP in device settings. On some devices, you need to turn on PiP permissions manually in settings.
• Accidentally closing the PiP window instead of resizing or moving it. Be mindful of the controls and icons.
• Not updating your device or apps. Outdated software may lack PiP support or have bugs that prevent functionality.
• Using a browser or app that doesn’t support PiP. Confirm that your chosen app or browser has PiP capabilities.

Tips

• Check app settings: Some apps require you to enable PiP manually within their settings menu.
• Use gesture controls: On iOS and Android, gestures can quickly access PiP mode—familiarize yourself with your device’s gestures.
• Resize for convenience: Make the PiP window smaller or larger depending on your needs, but keep it unobtrusive.
• Combine with other multitasking features: Use split-screen or app switchers to maximize multitasking efficiency.
• Test with different apps: Not all streaming apps support PiP, so try multiple sources to find what works best for you.

Troubleshooting

If PiP mode isn’t working as expected, try these steps:

• Ensure your device and apps are updated to the latest versions. Outdated software can cause compatibility issues.
• Verify that PiP mode is enabled in your device’s settings:
  • On Android: Settings > Apps & notifications > Special app access > Picture-in-picture. Make sure the toggle is on for the app you’re using.
  • On iOS: Settings > General > Picture in Picture, and ensure it’s enabled.
  • On Windows/macOS: Check app-specific settings or system preferences for PiP support.
• Close and reopen the app or browser, then try again.
• Restart your device to clear temporary glitches that might interfere with PiP.
• Try a different app or browser to determine if the issue is app-specific.
• Disable and re-enable PiP permissions in your device settings, then test again.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does every video support Picture in Picture?

No, not all videos or apps support PiP. Compatibility depends on the app developer and device capabilities. Popular streaming apps like YouTube support PiP on mobile devices, but some may require a premium subscription or specific settings.

2. How do I enable PiP on my Android device?

Go to Settings > Apps & notifications > Special app access > Picture-in-picture, and enable it for the apps you want to use with PiP. Some devices may have slightly different menu names.

3. Can I resize the PiP window?

Yes, most devices allow you to resize the PiP window by dragging its edges or corners, making it larger or smaller depending on your preference.

4. Is PiP available on all operating systems?

No, PiP is supported on Android (8.0+), iOS (14+), Windows 10, and macOS Catalina+. Compatibility varies, so check your device’s specifications and app support.

5. How do I exit PiP mode?

You can tap the PiP window and then tap the close button, or return to the original app or browser to restore the full video view. Alternatively, closing the app or navigating away may also exit PiP.

6. Why isn’t PiP working on my device?

Possible reasons include outdated software, disabled PiP permissions, unsupported apps, or device limitations. Check settings, update your software, and ensure app compatibility to resolve issues.

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