This is how you use ‘Picture in Picture’ on the iPhone

Picture in Picture now also on the iPhone

iPhone screens are getting bigger, so there is more space to display content. iPhones have also become more powerful, allowing the iPhone to display more at the same time. All this has ensured that you can use Picture in Picture on the iPhone. We have known Picture in Picture on the iPad for some time, but it is also useful on the iPhone. But what exactly is it, how do you use it and where does it work?

• What is Picture in Picture?
• Which media support Picture in Picture?
• Use Picture in Picture

What is Picture in Picture?

Picture in Picture lets videos float above another app so you can do two things at once. For example, if you are FaceTiming, you can do something else in the meantime without your image signaling ‘Pause’ to the other person. Or watch a Netflix series while chatting with your friends or watch a live stream of a sports match while checking Twitter: it’s possible with Picture in Picture on your iPhone.

You can also swipe the video aside while the audio continues. This way you can focus on your navigation, for example, without having to close the entire video including sound. Picture in picture only works with video apps. So you cannot place another app on top of another app in miniature, as is the case with Slide Over on the iPad.

Which media support Picture in Picture?

There is a fairly extensive list of different media that work with this feature. What they all have in common is that it concerns video. At this time, the iPhone does not yet support Split View, like the iPad. These are the default apps that work with PiP:

• TV
• Safari
• FaceTime
• iTunes
• Home

A large number of streaming and video apps or apps with video calling also work with Picture in Picture on iPhone:

• Netflix
• Disney+
• Videoland
• Amazon Prime Video
• Ziggo Go
• KPN iTV
• YouTube (YouTube Premium only)
• WhatsApp (video calling)
• …and much more

No doubt there are many more apps that support it. All apps that already support it on the iPad will also work on the iPhone without an additional app update.

How to use Picture in Picture on iPhone

Now you know what this handy feature is, but how do you use it? We will explain that. It’s easier than you might expect:

1. Open a suitable app and start a movie or series.
2. Tap the PiP icon at the top left (with the arrow pointing downwards). For apps that do not have this icon, close the app as soon as the video is played full screen.
3. PiP is activated. Swipe the image to where you want it.
4. By zooming in or out you change the size of the video.

Doesn’t it work? Then check whether the function is enabled at Settings > General > Picture in picture.

You can control the video by tapping it. Buttons will then appear to rewind, fast forward and pause. Would you like to listen to the sound alone? Then swipe the video to the side of your screen. An arrow will then appear with which you can retrieve the video. Tap the cross at the top left to close the video. If you want to watch with your full screen again, tap the button at the top right.