Are you tired of being stuck on a single app on your iPhone, wishing you could multitask like a pro? Well, you’re not alone! Many iPhone users have been craving the ability to minimize YouTube videos, allowing them to continue watching while browsing other apps. But can you really minimize YouTube on iPhone? In this article, we’ll dive into the world of iOS multitasking, exploring the possibilities and limitations of minimizing YouTube on your iPhone.
What is Multitasking on iPhone?
Before we dive into the specifics of minimizing YouTube, it’s essential to understand how multitasking works on iPhone. Introduced in iOS 9, multitasking allows iPhone users to use multiple apps simultaneously, making it easier to work, play, and stay entertained. There are three primary multitasking modes on iPhone:
- Slide Over: This feature enables you to quickly access a second app without leaving the current one. To use Slide Over, swipe left from the right edge of the screen.
- Split View: This mode allows you to use two apps side by side, perfect for referencing information or chatting with friends while watching a video. To enter Split View, swipe left from the right edge of the screen, then tap and hold on the app icon until it opens in Split View.
- Picture in Picture (PiP): This feature enables you to watch videos in a floating window while using other apps. PiP is available on select apps, including Apple TV, Podcasts, and some third-party video streaming services.
Can You Minimize YouTube on iPhone?
Now, let’s address the burning question: can you minimize YouTube on iPhone? The answer is, unfortunately, no – not in the classical sense. YouTube doesn’t support Picture in Picture mode on iPhone, which means you can’t minimize the app and continue watching videos in a floating window while using other apps.
However, there are some creative workarounds to achieve a similar multitasking experience:
Using Safari to Watch YouTube Videos
One way to “minimize” YouTube on iPhone is to watch videos in Safari. You can open YouTube.com in Safari, start playing a video, and then swipe up to return to the home screen or open another app. The video will continue playing in the background, allowing you to multitask. This method has some limitations, though:
- You’ll need to keep Safari open in the background, which might consume more battery life.
- You won’t be able to control the video playback (pause, play, or adjust volume) from the multitasking menu.
- Some features, like casting or commenting, might not work as expected.
Utilizing Third-Party Browser Apps
Another approach is to use third-party browser apps that support PiP mode, such as Opera Touch or Firefox Focus. These browsers allow you to open YouTube.com, start playing a video, and then enter PiP mode to continue watching while using other apps. Keep in mind that:
- Not all third-party browser apps support PiP mode.
- Some browser apps might have limitations or quirks when it comes to video playback.
- You’ll need to compromise on the browsing experience, as these apps might not offer the same level of integration as Safari.
Future Possibilities: YouTube’s iOS Update
In June 2020, YouTube announced an update to its iOS app, bringing PiP mode to iPhone users. This update allowed users to minimize YouTube videos and continue watching while using other apps. However, this feature was later removed due to technical issues.
Rumors and Speculations
While YouTube hasn’t officially confirmed the return of PiP mode, rumors suggest that the feature might be re-added in a future update. With Apple’s continued emphasis on multitasking and iOS features like Split View, it’s possible that YouTube might revisit its PiP mode implementation.
Conclusion
While you can’t directly minimize YouTube on iPhone, there are workarounds to achieve a similar multitasking experience. By using Safari or third-party browser apps, you can find a way to “minimize” YouTube and continue watching videos while using other apps. However, these methods come with limitations and compromises.
As iOS continues to evolve, we can hope that YouTube and Apple will work together to bring a seamless PiP mode experience to iPhone users. Until then, get creative and find your own ways to multitask like a pro!
Table: Multitasking Modes on iPhone
| Multitasking Mode | Description |
|---|---|
| Slide Over | Quickly access a second app without leaving the current one |
| Split View | Use two apps side by side |
| Picture in Picture (PiP) | Watch videos in a floating window while using other apps |
Remember, as iOS and YouTube evolve, we might see new features and improvements that will make multitasking even more seamless. Stay tuned for future updates, and happy multitasking!
Can I minimize YouTube on my iPhone?
Yes, you can minimize YouTube on your iPhone. With the latest iOS updates, Apple has introduced a feature called “Picture in Picture” (PiP) that allows you to minimize YouTube videos and continue watching them while using other apps. This feature is available on iPhone models running iOS 14 or later.
To use PiP, start playing a YouTube video and then swipe up from the bottom of the screen to go to the home screen. You’ll see the video continue playing in a small window. You can then open other apps, browse the web, or perform other tasks while still watching the video. You can also adjust the size of the video window by pinching or zooming in and out with your fingers.
How do I enable Picture in Picture mode on my iPhone?
To enable Picture in Picture mode on your iPhone, make sure you’re running iOS 14 or later. Then, start playing a YouTube video and swipe up from the bottom of the screen to go to the home screen. If PiP is available, you’ll see the video continue playing in a small window. If you don’t see the video window, check that you’re running a compatible version of iOS and that the YouTube app is updated to the latest version.
Note that not all apps support PiP, so you may not be able to use this feature with all videos or apps. Additionally, some videos may not be allowed to be minimized due to copyright restrictions or other limitations set by the content creators.
Can I minimize YouTube on older iPhone models?
Unfortunately, the Picture in Picture feature is only available on iPhone models running iOS 14 or later. If you have an older iPhone model running an earlier version of iOS, you won’t be able to use PiP. However, there are some third-party apps and workarounds that can help you minimize YouTube videos, although they may not offer the same seamless experience as PiP.
One option is to use a third-party video player app that supports background playback. These apps can allow you to continue watching videos in the background while using other apps. However, keep in mind that not all apps or videos may support this feature, and you may encounter limitations or restrictions.
How do I adjust the size of the Picture in Picture window?
To adjust the size of the Picture in Picture window on your iPhone, simply pinch or zoom in and out with your fingers. This will allow you to resize the video window to your preferred size. You can also drag the window to move it to a different part of the screen, or tap the window to open the video in full screen mode again.
Note that the PiP window can be a bit finicky, and you may need to adjust it a few times to get it to the right size. Additionally, some apps or videos may not allow you to resize the window or may have limitations on how small or large you can make it.
Can I use Picture in Picture with other video apps?
Yes, Picture in Picture is not limited to the YouTube app. Many other video apps, including Apple’s own TV app, support PiP. In fact, PiP is a system-wide feature that can be used with any app that supports video playback. This means you can use PiP with a wide range of apps, from streaming services like Netflix and Hulu to social media apps like Facebook and Instagram.
However, it’s worth noting that not all apps support PiP, and some may have limitations or restrictions on its use. Additionally, some apps may have their own custom implementations of PiP, so the experience may vary depending on the app you’re using.
Does Picture in Picture drain my iPhone’s battery?
One concern about using Picture in Picture is that it might drain your iPhone’s battery more quickly. However, Apple has optimized PiP to be power-efficient, and it should not have a significant impact on your battery life. In fact, PiP is designed to use less power than playing a video in full-screen mode, since the video is playing in a smaller window.
That being said, using PiP will still consume some power, especially if you’re watching videos for an extended period. To minimize the impact on your battery life, make sure to turn off PiP when you’re not using it, and adjust the brightness and volume of your iPhone to a comfortable level.
Can I use Picture in Picture on my iPad?
Yes, Picture in Picture is also available on the iPad, and it works in a similar way to the iPhone. To use PiP on your iPad, start playing a video and then swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen to open the multitasking menu. Tap the “Picture in Picture” button to minimize the video and continue watching it in a small window.
On the iPad, you can also use Split View to open a second app alongside the PiP window, allowing you to multitask even more efficiently. This can be especially useful for tasks like watching a video tutorial while taking notes or browsing the web.