Picture in Picture (PiP) viewing has become a widely popular feature among technology enthusiasts, allowing users to multitask by watching videos while using other apps on their devices. In a move that delighted Apple users, the YouTube app now supports Picture in Picture on iPhones running iOS 14 and above, giving users an enhanced viewing experience.
With this feature, you can simply start watching a video on the YouTube app and then exit the app to go to your device's home screen or switch to another app, all while the video continues to play in a small, resizable window. This means you can catch up on your favorite YouTube content while replying to messages, browsing the web, or checking your emails without any interruption.
To activate Picture in Picture while using the YouTube app on your iPhone, start by playing a video. Once the video is playing, swipe up from the bottom of the screen to return to your device's home screen or switch to another app. You will notice that the video automatically minimizes into a floating window that you can move around the screen. To resize the PiP window, simply pinch the video with your fingers, making it bigger or smaller to suit your preference.
If you need to interact with the PiP window while using other apps, you can tap on it to reveal playback controls such as play/pause, skip forward/backward, and a button to return to the full-screen YouTube app. This level of control ensures that you can enjoy your video content seamlessly without having to constantly switch between apps.
It is important to note that the Picture in Picture feature within the YouTube app is available to YouTube Premium subscribers. However, users without a subscription can still enjoy this functionality until YouTube decides to limit access.
Furthermore, Picture in Picture takes advantage of the full capabilities of your device, allowing you to make the most out of the screen real estate. This feature is particularly useful for tasks that benefit from dual app usage, such as following a recipe while watching a cooking tutorial, taking notes while watching an educational video, or keeping up with live events while engaging in social media.
Overall, the addition of Picture in Picture support to the YouTube app on iOS devices has proven to be a game-changer for many users who value productivity and multitasking. Whether you are a casual viewer or a serious content consumer, the ability to watch YouTube videos in a floating window opens up a world of possibilities without disrupting your workflow. So, next time you find yourself itching to catch up on the latest YouTube video, remember that you can now do so straight from the app with Picture in Picture mode.