Source: Social Media Today – Latest News by Andrew Hutchinson. Read the original article
TL;DR Summary of Instagram Tests Picture-in-Picture Playback for Reels
Instagram is now live testing a new picture-in-picture (PiP) feature for Reels, allowing users to watch videos outside the app. This update focuses on video playback, not creation, enabling multitasking similar to TikTok and YouTube. The feature aims to boost user retention by letting viewers continue watching clips in the background. Testing is currently limited to a small group of users as Instagram refines the functionality.
Optimixed’s Overview: Instagram Enhances User Experience with Picture-in-Picture Video Playback
Introduction to Instagram’s PiP Feature
Instagram has introduced a picture-in-picture (PiP) playback option specifically for its Reels content. This feature enables users to continue watching videos while navigating away from the app, supporting multitasking and improving video consumption flexibility.
How PiP Works on Instagram
- PiP is designed solely for video playback, not for creating content within the app.
- A newly added toggle in playback settings allows users to enable or disable this feature.
- The video continues playing in a small overlay window while users use other apps or perform different tasks on their device.
Benefits and Industry Context
This rollout aligns Instagram with other leading platforms like TikTok and YouTube, which already support PiP functionality. Key benefits include:
- Enhanced user retention by encouraging longer watch times.
- Improved user engagement through background playback capabilities.
- Convenience for users who want to multitask without missing content.
Current Status and Future Outlook
Instagram is currently testing PiP with a limited set of users as it gathers feedback and optimizes the experience. The platform’s leadership has acknowledged the feature’s potential to enrich video consumption, and it is expected to be rolled out widely in the near future.
