Content creators on Instagram have a major reason to be optimistic, as the platform is testing a new Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode that could significantly boost video performance. This feature allows Reels to continue playing in a floating mini-player when users switch to other applications, directly addressing a key reason for audience drop-off on longer videos.
During the limited testing phase, select users can watch a Reel while simultaneously browsing the internet, sending emails, or using any other app on their device. For creators, this means their content has a much higher chance of being watched to completion. A viewer who gets a text message no longer has to choose between watching the video and responding; they can now do both. This is expected to translate directly into higher watch time and more robust engagement metrics.
The feature was first spotted by app researchers and later confirmed to be an official test. Instagram’s leadership has acknowledged that users have been requesting PiP support for some time, making this a highly anticipated update. As with similar features on other platforms, users will have full control and can easily deactivate the PiP functionality from the Reel’s settings menu if they prefer.
This creator-focused enhancement is complemented by another significant platform expansion: the official launch of an Instagram app for iPad. The new tablet app offers a larger canvas for creators’ content to shine and provides users with an optimized interface for a more immersive viewing experience on bigger screens.
