How to Enable and Use Picture-in-Picture Mode

Picture-in-Picture Mode

Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode is a useful feature that allows you to multitask on your device by watching a video or see visual content in a small floating window while using other applications. This guide will walk you through the process of enabling and using PiP mode on various devices and applications.

Enabling Picture-in-Picture Mode on Android Devices

Step 1: Check your Android version

Ensure that your Android device is running on Android 8.0 Oreo or a newer version. PiP mode is only available on devices with Android Nougat (7.0) and later, but the exact steps may vary slightly depending on your device manufacturer.

Step 2: Enable Picture-in-Picture mode

Open the Settings app on your Android device.
Scroll down and tap on Apps & Notifications (may appear as "Applications" or "App Manager" on some devices).
Tap on the Advanced menu, then select Special app access.
Look for Picture-in-Picture or Advanced settings in the list, and tap on it.
Toggle the switch to Enable Picture-in-Picture mode.

Using Picture-in-Picture Mode on Android

Step 1: Launch a PiP-supported application

To take advantage of Picture-in-Picture mode, you need to use an application that supports it. Most video streaming apps like YouTube, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video support PiP mode, but many others do as well. Launch the app you want to use PiP mode with and start playing a video.

Step 2: Activate Picture-in-Picture mode

While the video is playing, swipe up from the bottom (or drag the video towards the bottom) to activate PiP mode. The video will shrink into a small window that you can move around the screen.

Step 3: Interacting with Picture-in-Picture mode

To move the PiP window, tap and hold it, then drag it to your desired location.
To increase or decrease the size of the PiP window, pinch in or out using two fingers.
To expand the PiP window back to full screen, double-tap on it.
To access additional options (e.g., Pause, Close, Next), tap on the PiP window to bring up the controls.

Enabling Picture-in-Picture Mode on iOS Devices

Step 1: Check your iOS version

Ensure that your iOS device is running on iOS 14 or a newer version. PiP mode was introduced with iOS 14 and is available on compatible devices.

Step 2: Enable Picture-in-Picture mode

Open the Settings app on your iOS device.
Scroll down and tap on Home Screen & Dock.
Tap on Multitasking.
Toggle the switch next to Picture in Picture to enable the feature.

Using Picture-in-Picture Mode on iOS

Step 1: Launch a PiP-supported application

Open an application that supports PiP mode. Video streaming apps like Safari, YouTube, Netflix, and Apple TV+ typically support it.

Step 2: Activate Picture-in-Picture mode

While watching a video, swipe up from the bottom (iPhone with Home button) or swipe down from the top-right corner (iPhone X or newer) to activate PiP mode. The video will enter PiP mode and shrink into a small floating window.

Step 3: Interacting with Picture-in-Picture mode

To move the PiP window around the screen, swipe it with your finger.
To resize the PiP window, pinch in or out using two fingers.
To pause or resume playback, tap on the PiP window.
To expand the PiP window back to full screen, simply tap on it.

Enabling Picture-in-Picture Mode in Apps on MacOS

Step 1: Check your MacOS version

Ensure that your Mac is running on macOS Sierra or a newer version. PiP mode is available in applications that support it on these versions or later.

Step 2: Use a PiP-supported application

Various video playback applications like Safari, VLC, and QuickTime Player on macOS support PiP mode.

Step 3: Activate Picture-in-Picture mode

While watching a video in a compatible application, look for an icon or a right-click menu option that allows you to enter PiP mode. The icon is typically represented as two overlapping rectangles or can be accessed through the right-click menu.

Step 4: Interacting with Picture-in-Picture mode

To move the PiP window around the screen, click and drag it.
To resize the PiP window, click and drag the corners.
To pause or resume playback, click on the PiP window.
To close the PiP window, look for a close or X icon and click on it.

You are now equipped to enable and use Picture-in-Picture mode on different devices and applications. Enhance your multitasking abilities and enjoy watching videos while completing other tasks without compromising your productivity!