Exploring Picture in Picture Feature on iOS 14 and How to Utilize It

Initially introduced on iPad, the Picture in Picture (PiP) feature is now supported on iPhone starting from iOS 14. This functionality allows users to multitask, such as watching videos while engaging in FaceTime calls on the same device. So, what exactly is Picture in Picture on iOS 14 and how do you use it? Let's find out in this article with Mytour!

Starting from iOS 14, Picture-in-Picture can be used on iPhones.

Apple unveiled iOS 14 at the WWDC 2020 (World Wide Developers Conference), bringing numerous new features, with the standout being the Picture in Picture (PiP) function. Although long present on iPad, this marks its debut on iOS 14.

The PiP feature allows users to watch videos in a small window on the screen while using other apps simultaneously. You can customize the size and position of the window as desired. This feature has been long-awaited by Apple users, especially those with large-screen models like the iPhone 14 Pro Max 1TB.

PiP is highly convenient for iPhone users.

Currently, Picture-in-Picture is confirmed to work from various video sources or apps within Apple's ecosystem such as Safari, iTunes, Podcasts, Facetime,...

Currently, devices with iOS 14 update onwards have PiP feature enabled by default. However, you can still turn it off in the Settings. Picture-in-Picture will be applied to various apps that stream video content. Refer to the following usage methods:

Quick Guide to Using PiP on iPhone

Firstly, you need to check if your device has been updated to iOS 14 or the latest version (Currently iOS 16). 

Next, select one of the apps that support Picture-in-Picture feature. Note that currently Google has restricted this feature to Youtube Premium accounts, however, you can still use PiP on Safari (As shown in the example below).

- Step 1: Go to Safari, then type Youtube.com and choose the video you want to watch

- Step 2: Click on the fullscreen icon

- Step 3: Next, click on the PiP icon on the bottom left corner of the screen to enter this mode

How to enable PiP on Safari

For other apps within the Apple ecosystem like Apple TV, you can do the same as on Safari. It's straightforward: just access the app, then tap on the PiP icon to activate this mode.

Additionally, there are other apps that support Picture-in-Picture mode such as: Apple TV+, Netflix, Disney+, VieOn,…

PiP on Apple TV functions similarly to on Safari

Certainly, iPhone enthusiasts are familiar with the Facetime app. On iOS 14, users can perform two tasks simultaneously, and perhaps this is the greatest benefit of this feature. From iOS 13 downwards, when you switch apps, Facetime will automatically pause your video, while the other person on the line can still hear you but won't see you.

Make video calls and watch movies simultaneously with PiP

Apple has implemented the PiP feature by default on iOS 14, and in some cases, you may find it inconvenient when this mode automatically activates on your phone. You can disable it using the following steps:

Step 1: Open Settings on your iPhone, then select the General section.

Step 2: Tap on the Picture-in-Picture mode.

Step 3: Disable the Start PiP Automatically option.

Steps to Disable PiP on iPhone

So, after completing this setup option, if you need to use the PiP feature, you must press the PiP icon within the video instead of exiting to the main screen as the default initial setting.

The Picture in Picture feature on iOS 14 proves incredibly useful for Apple enthusiasts, enhancing multitasking efficiency on your mobile phone. With these details, you'll understand what Picture in Picture is and how to use it effectively.