Instagram is testing a picture-in-picture (PiP) feature for Reels, enabling users to watch videos outside the app. This feature, first mentioned in March, is now being rolled out to a small group of users who see a new toggle in playback settings. Unlike creating PiP videos, this feature is designed solely for viewing content.
With TikTok and YouTube already offering PiP, Instagram aims to enhance multitasking capabilities, addressing modern attention spans. Instagram chief Adam Mosseri had expressed interest in PiP, which led to its development.
The PiP feature could boost retention by allowing users to watch longer clips while performing other tasks, improving overall user experience. Testing remains limited to select users for now.