Instagram is working on a much-anticipated update that could change the way users enjoy short videos. The platform is set to introduce Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode for Reels, allowing videos to continue playing in a floating window while users multitask on their devices. This feature, already popular on platforms like YouTube and TikTok, is expected to enhance user convenience and boost creator engagement significantly.
Meta, the parent company of Instagram, has been actively rolling out updates to keep its platform competitive in the fast-growing short-video space. According to early reports, PiP mode is currently in its testing phase with a limited set of users. This means not everyone will have immediate access, but it signals Instagram’s intent to prioritize features that improve both engagement and viewing flexibility.
The update was first spotted by app researcher Radu Oncescu, who shared screenshots of the feature on Threads, showing how it would work in action.
The Picture-in-Picture functionality allows users to shrink an Instagram Reel into a small, resizable window that remains visible on their screen while switching between other apps. For example, you could be replying to WhatsApp messages, browsing on Chrome, checking your gallery, or scrolling through X (formerly Twitter), all while a Reel continues playing in the corner.
This seamless multitasking ability mirrors what users already experience on YouTube Premium and TikTok, making Instagram more versatile and appealing to audiences who want uninterrupted entertainment.
For everyday users, PiP mode eliminates the need to stay glued to the Instagram app just to finish watching a Reel. This is particularly useful for:
Longer Reels: Viewers won’t feel forced to skip or leave halfway if they need to multitask.
Convenience: It allows smooth multitasking without interrupting entertainment.
Improved Viewing Experience: Users can continue watching content in the background, reducing frustration caused by constant app-switching.
In short, PiP aligns with modern digital habits where multitasking is the norm, making Instagram more user-friendly and engaging.
For creators, PiP mode has the potential to become a game-changer. Longer videos on Instagram often face drop-offs as users exit the app to do other tasks. With PiP, however, the chances of audiences finishing videos increase significantly.
Higher Engagement Rates: Viewers are less likely to abandon videos midway.
Increased Watch Time: Continuous playback ensures better retention.
Broader Reach: Videos that maintain higher completion rates are more likely to be promoted by Instagram’s algorithm.
This not only helps creators build stronger connections with their followers but also improves their chances of monetization and growth on the platform.
The idea of Picture-in-Picture mode for Instagram is not entirely new. Instagram’s head, Adam Mosseri, had previously hinted that the team was considering such a feature. While Meta often experiments with updates, not all of them make it to a global rollout.
At this stage, the PiP feature is still in its testing phase, with no official release date announced. However, if the testing phase receives positive feedback, a worldwide rollout could follow soon.
Meta’s decision to test PiP mode highlights its efforts to stay competitive with TikTok and YouTube, both of which already offer similar functionality. With short-form video being one of the most consumed content formats globally, Instagram cannot afford to fall behind.
If PiP proves successful, it could become one of Instagram’s most impactful updates yet, further solidifying its place in the short-video market and giving both users and creators more reasons to stay on the app.
Conclusion
The introduction of Picture-in-Picture mode for Instagram Reels could transform how users engage with the platform. By offering flexibility and improving the viewing experience, the feature benefits both audiences and creators. While still in testing, its eventual global rollout has the potential to boost engagement, reduce drop-offs, and position Instagram as a stronger competitor to YouTube and TikTok.