Picture-in-picture mode is a useful feature that allows users to continue watching videos in a floating window while multitasking on their Android device. This feature was first introduced in Android 8.0 Oreo and has since become a standard feature on most Android devices. It is particularly useful for users who want to watch videos while using other apps or browsing the web.
Enabling picture-in-picture mode on your Android device is a straightforward process, and this article will guide you through the steps involved.
Step 1: Check if Your Device Supports Picture-in-Picture Mode
The first step in enabling picture-in-picture mode is to check if your device supports this feature. Most devices running Android 8.0 or higher will have this feature, but it is always better to confirm. To check if your device supports picture-in-picture mode, go to your device settings, and search for the “Picture-in-Picture” option. If this option is available, then your device supports this feature.
Step 2: Enable Picture-in-Picture Mode in App Settings
After confirming that your device supports picture-in-picture mode, the next step is to enable it for specific apps. Picture-in-picture mode is available for select apps such as YouTube, Google Maps, Netflix, etc. To enable it for a particular app, go to your device settings, search for the “Apps” option, and select the app you want to use in picture-in-picture mode. Next, tap on the “Advanced” options and look for the “Allow picture-in-picture” toggle. Enable this option, and you can now use the app in picture-in-picture mode.
Step 3: Use Picture-in-Picture Mode
Once you have enabled picture-in-picture mode for the desired app, you can now use it. For example, if you want to watch a YouTube video in picture-in-picture mode, open the YouTube app on your device and start playing a video. Then, press the home button on your device, and the video will automatically switch to picture-in-picture mode. You can resize the floating window by dragging the edges or move it around the screen. You can also perform other tasks on your device while the video continues to play in the floating window.
Tips for Using Picture-in-Picture Mode
1. Some apps may have a dedicated picture-in-picture button, making it easier to enable this mode.
2. While in picture-in-picture mode, you can still interact with the video by tapping on the floating window, which will open the video controls.
3. You can also enable picture-in-picture mode for multiple apps simultaneously, which allows you to switch between them with ease.
4. You can disable picture-in-picture mode for a specific app by following the same steps mentioned in Step 2 and turning off the “Allow picture-in-picture” toggle.
5. Some devices may have different settings for picture-in-picture mode, so make sure to check your device’s user manual for specific instructions.
Uses of Picture-in-Picture Mode
1. Multitasking: The primary use of picture-in-picture mode is to allow users to continue watching videos while completing other tasks on their device. This can be particularly helpful for students and professionals who may want to watch educational or tutorial videos while taking notes or working on their assignments or projects.
2. Navigation: Picture-in-picture mode is also useful for navigating while driving. You can use navigation apps in this mode, which shows you the map in a floating window while you use other apps on your device.
3. Entertainment: You can use picture-in-picture mode to watch movies or TV shows while chatting with friends or scrolling through your social media feed.
In conclusion, picture-in-picture mode is a handy feature available on most Android devices. It allows for efficient multitasking and makes it easier for users to complete multiple tasks simultaneously. By following the simple steps mentioned in this article, you can enable and make the most out of this useful feature on your Android device.