Are you tired of being stuck on a single app on your iPhone, unable to multitask or enjoy your favorite content while doing other tasks? Well, Apple has got you covered with the Picture in Picture (PiP) feature. Introduced in iOS 9, PiP allows you to minimize a video or other compatible content into a small window, enabling you to continue watching or listening while using other apps. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of PiP on iPhone, exploring how to use it, its benefits, and some hidden features you might not know about.
What is Picture in Picture (PiP) on iPhone?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of using PiP, let’s quickly understand what it is and how it works. PiP is a feature that allows you to shrink a video or other compatible content into a small window, usually in the bottom right corner of your iPhone screen. This window can be moved around, resized, and even controlled independently of the app it originated from.
PiP is compatible with various types of content, including:
- Videos from apps like YouTube, Netflix, and Apple TV
- FaceTime and video calls
- Some audio content, like podcasts and music videos
- Even some iOS games
How to Use Picture in Picture on iPhone
Now that you know what PiP is, let’s explore how to use it on your iPhone.
Step 1: Make Sure PiP is Supported
Not all apps or content support PiP, so the first step is to ensure that the app or content you want to use PiP with is compatible. Look for the PiP icon (a small rectangle with an arrow pointing inward) in the bottom right corner of the video or content player. If you see this icon, you’re good to go!
Step 2: Start the Video or Content
Open the app and start playing the video or content you want to use PiP with. Make sure the video is playing in full screen.
Step 3: Swipe Up to Enable PiP
Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open the iPhone’s control center. Tap the PiP icon (the small rectangle with an arrow pointing inward) to enable PiP mode. The video will shrink into a small window, usually in the bottom right corner of your screen.
Step 4: Move and Resize the PiP Window
You can move the PiP window around your screen by dragging it with your finger. To resize the window, pinch in or out with two fingers.
Step 5: Control the PiP Window
Tap the PiP window to reveal playback controls, such as play/pause, skip forward or backward, and close. You can also use Siri to control the PiP window, saying “Hey Siri, pause” or “Hey Siri, play” to control the video.
Benefits of Using Picture in Picture on iPhone
So, why should you use PiP on your iPhone? Here are some benefits:
Multitasking Made Easy
PiP allows you to multitask like a pro, watching videos or listening to podcasts while browsing the web, checking email, or even playing games.
Convenience and Flexibility
With PiP, you can quickly switch between apps without interrupting your video or audio content. This is especially useful when you need to respond to a message or check a notification.
Enhanced Productivity
PiP enables you to make the most of your iPhone’s screen real estate, allowing you to work on other tasks while still enjoying your favorite content.
Tips and Tricks for Using Picture in Picture on iPhone
Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you get the most out of PiP on your iPhone:
Tip 1: Use Siri with PiP
As mentioned earlier, you can use Siri to control the PiP window. Try saying “Hey Siri, show me the video” to bring the PiP window to the forefront.
Tip 2: Customize PiP Window Size
To customize the size of the PiP window, simply pinch in or out with two fingers. You can also tap the PiP window to reveal playback controls and adjust the size from there.
Tip 3: Use PiP with FaceTime
PiP works seamlessly with FaceTime, allowing you to continue video calls while using other apps. Simply swipe up to enable PiP during a FaceTime call.
Common Issues with Picture in Picture on iPhone
As with any feature, PiP on iPhone is not immune to issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
Issue 1: PiP Not Working with Certain Apps
If PiP isn’t working with a particular app, check if the app is compatible with PiP. If it is, try restarting the app or your iPhone.
Issue 2: PiP Window Not Resizing Correctly
If the PiP window isn’t resizing correctly, try restarting the app or your iPhone. You can also try adjusting the window size from within the app itself.
Issue 3: PiP Not Working with Audio Content
PiP might not work with all audio content, especially if the app doesn’t support it. Try using a different app or checking if the app has PiP support.
Conclusion
Picture in Picture on iPhone is a powerful feature that can revolutionize the way you multitask and enjoy content on your device. By following the steps outlined in this article and mastering the tips and tricks, you’ll be able to unlock the full potential of PiP and take your iPhone experience to the next level. So, go ahead and give PiP a try – you might just discover a new way to love your iPhone!
What is Picture in Picture (PiP) mode on iPhone?
Picture in Picture (PiP) mode is a feature on iPhone that allows you to watch videos or make video calls while simultaneously using other apps on your device. This means you can continue watching your favorite shows or participate in video conferencing without having to switch between apps. PiP mode is supported on iPhone 8 and later models, running iOS 14 or later.
The PiP window appears as a small, resizable rectangle that can be moved around the screen, allowing you to position it conveniently while you use other apps. You can adjust the size of the PiP window by pinching in or out with your fingers. Additionally, you can tap the PiP window to reveal controls for playback, audio output, and closing the window.
How do I enable Picture in Picture (PiP) mode on my iPhone?
To enable Picture in Picture (PiP) mode on your iPhone, start by opening a compatible app that supports PiP, such as the TV app, Apple Music, or FaceTime. Begin playing a video or making a video call, and then swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open the home screen or go to another app. The video will automatically transition into PiP mode, allowing you to use other apps simultaneously.
Note that not all apps support PiP mode. If an app does not support PiP, the video will pause or stop when you swipe up to go to the home screen or open another app. You can also disable PiP mode by going to Settings > General > Picture in Picture and toggling off the switch next to “Picture in Picture”.
Can I use Picture in Picture (PiP) mode with any video app?
No, not all video apps support Picture in Picture (PiP) mode on iPhone. The app must be optimized to work with PiP mode, which means the developer of the app must have specifically added support for this feature. Some popular apps that do support PiP mode include the TV app, Apple Music, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. If an app does not support PiP mode, the video will pause or stop when you try to swipe up to go to the home screen or open another app.
If you’re unsure whether an app supports PiP mode, try swiping up from the bottom of the screen while watching a video. If the video transitions into a small window, the app supports PiP mode. If the video pauses or stops, the app does not support PiP mode.
How do I resize the Picture in Picture (PiP) window?
You can resize the Picture in Picture (PiP) window on your iPhone by using the pinch gesture. To do this, place two fingers on the PiP window and pinch in or out to make the window smaller or larger. You can resize the window to any size you prefer, from near full-screen to a small thumbnail.
Additionally, you can also move the PiP window around the screen by dragging it with your finger. This allows you to position the window conveniently while using other apps. You can move the window to any corner of the screen or place it over another app, making it easy to multitask.
Can I use Picture in Picture (PiP) mode with FaceTime?
Yes, you can use Picture in Picture (PiP) mode with FaceTime on your iPhone. When you’re on a FaceTime call, you can swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open the home screen or go to another app. The FaceTime call will transition into PiP mode, allowing you to use other apps while continuing your video call.
In PiP mode, you can still hear the audio from the FaceTime call, and you can tap the PiP window to reveal controls for muting or ending the call. This feature is particularly useful if you need to reference information or check another app during a video call.
Can I use Picture in Picture (PiP) mode on my iPad?
Yes, you can use Picture in Picture (PiP) mode on your iPad, but it works slightly differently than on iPhone. On iPad, PiP mode is available in iPadOS 13.4 and later, and it’s supported in many of the same apps that support PiP mode on iPhone. To enable PiP mode on iPad, start a video or video call in a compatible app, then swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen to open the PiP window.
On iPad, the PiP window can be moved around the screen and resized using the pinch gesture, just like on iPhone. You can also tap the PiP window to reveal controls for playback, audio output, and closing the window.
Are there any limitations to using Picture in Picture (PiP) mode?
Yes, there are some limitations to using Picture in Picture (PiP) mode on your iPhone. One limitation is that not all apps support PiP mode, so you may not be able to use PiP mode with all video apps. Additionally, PiP mode may not work when using certain features, such as AirPlay or mirroring your screen to a TV or projector.
Another limitation is that PiP mode may not be available in all regions or countries, depending on the app and the content being played. Finally, some apps may have specific requirements or restrictions for using PiP mode, such as requiring a subscription or login credentials.