Learn to use picture-in-picture on all your devices

Picture-in-picture (PiP) mode lets you watch videos while using other apps—a feature available on many devices. Continue watching in one app while using another, whether on a smartphone or laptop.

This handy trick, while potentially distracting, proves useful for monitoring sports scores, news updates, or video calls alongside other tasks.

PiP on Android, iOS, and iPadOS

While supported on these platforms, not all apps offer PiP. Compatible apps (including Disney , Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV) usually include built-in PiP functionality. YouTube app supports PiP, but only for Premium subscribers.

To activate PiP: start a video, then switch to the home screen (swipe up from the bottom on Android, or tap the PiP button—two overlapping squares with an arrow—on Apple devices). Playback continues in a resizable, movable window. Android users can tap the window to expand/shrink, reposition, and access controls. iOS/iPadOS users pinch and drag to resize, tap and drag to move, and tap briefly for controls. App-specific PiP settings are accessible via device settings (Apps & Notifications > Advanced > Special app access > Picture-in-picture). Disable PiP for individual apps as needed. On iOS/iPadOS, disable PiP globally via Settings > General > Picture in Picture.

PiP on Windows and macOS

These operating systems inherently support multiple applications, including video playback. Resize and reposition video windows as needed. Many media players offer a "pin to top" option, keeping the video window above others.

On macOS (QuickTime Player or Apple TV app), use the PiP button (two rectangles and an arrow, bottom right) to pin the video. Resize and reposition as needed.

Windows apps vary. The Films & TV app offers "mini view" (PiP). VLC Player allows pinning videos to the top via View > Always on top.

Browsers also support PiP. In YouTube, right-click the video, then right-click again to find the browser's PiP option. This creates a separate window in Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari (YouTube only). Resize and reposition the window as needed; closing the source tab ends playback.

PiP on Other Devices

Apple TV natively supports PiP; access it via the playback controls on the Siri remote. AirPlay content also supports PiP. Other smart TVs may offer similar features (often called split-screen), but this varies by model. Check your TV's manual or online resources.

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