Users can now watch Reels in picture-in-picture (PiP) mode as a floating window when they leave Instagram. Instagram users can now watch their favourite short videos while multitasking, like YouTube and TikTok.
Instagram’s parent company, Meta, acknowledged testing the functionality with a select sample of users to improve video retention and engagement.
Picture-in-picture mode boosts multitasking
In this test, chosen users will be prompted to “Try Picture in Picture,” which plays Reels in a small window that stays on screen after Instagram is closed. Moving and resizing the PiP window lets viewers react to messages, browse the web, and use other programs without halting the stream. Instagram head Adam Mosseri had indicated earlier this year that the company was exploring this feature after user demand.
“I’d talk to the team and see if we can figure something out,” Mosseri said, which now appears to be taking shape in this test phase. This move aligns with growing multitasking habits where people prefer consuming content without interruptions.
How Instagram’s new PiP stands out
Unlike other apps that have offered PiP for a while, Instagram was slower to adopt it for Reels. By catching up, Instagram hopes to keep viewers glued to their Reels for longer.
The feature could help creators get more views on longer videos since users won’t have to watch with the Instagram app open. Users can also toggle the PiP feature on or off in the settings menu or directly while watching a Reel.
Observers note this development could be a strategic push by Meta to compete more aggressively in the short-form video market by improving user experience and boosting engagement metrics.
This new picture-in-picture functionality could shift how users interact with Reels, making it easier to stay connected and entertained without sacrificing other tasks. The test is limited, and Instagram has not announced when a full rollout will occur, but this promising feature signals a bigger focus on flexible content viewing.