Instagram is testing Picture-in-Picture for Reels
Instagram has begun testing a Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode for Reels, the company confirmed to TechCrunch this week. The experimental feature allows users to play Reels in a small, floating window while continuing to use other apps, opening the door for true multitasking.
How It Works
The PiP feature was first spotted by app researcher Radu Oncescu. Users included in the test will see a pop-up notification explaining the option and how to enable it. Once active, Reels can keep playing in a minimized window while users switch over to texting, browsing X, or performing other tasks on their phone.
Why It Matters
Picture-in-Picture isn’t new to short-form video. TikTok and YouTube already support the functionality, and Instagram’s adoption could help creators keep audiences engaged with longer-form Reels. Instead of losing attention when viewers switch apps, content can continue playing in the background.
This could be particularly valuable at a time when attention spans are shrinking. By letting users multitask, Instagram may boost both retention for creators and overall time spent in-app, a metric central to its business.
The Backstory
Earlier this year, Instagram head Adam Mosseri hinted at PiP support. When asked in a Q&A about adding the feature, he responded that he would “talk to the team and see if we can figure something out.” Now, the company is quietly making good on that hint with limited testing.
What’s Next
For now, PiP is available only to a small group of test users, and Instagram hasn’t shared details on a broader rollout. As with all experimental features, it’s possible PiP could remain a limited experiment — or expand widely if engagement results look promising.
