To enable picture-in-picture on iPhone running iOS 17, head to Settings, then tap on General, followed by Picture in Picture. Switch on the feature, and voilà , you’re all set to multitask like a pro!
After enabling this feature, you’ll be able to watch a video in a small, movable window while simultaneously using other apps. Neat, right?
You can also check out this video about how to enable picture in picture on iPhone for more info on this topic.
Introduction
Picture-in-picture (PiP) is a nifty little feature that most of us didn’t know we needed until we had it. It’s like having your cake and eating it too, but for multitasking. You can watch your favorite YouTuber’s latest video while replying to texts or scroll through social media as a news segment plays in the corner of your iPhone’s screen. It’s the ultimate way to maximize productivity – or, let’s be honest, make sure you don’t miss a second of your shows.
But why is this important, and who is it for? Simply put, it’s for anyone and everyone who uses an iPhone. We live in an age where efficiency is key, and our smartphones are our lifelines. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who likes to keep up with the latest viral videos, PiP can enhance your iPhone experience. iOS 17 has brought this feature to the forefront, making it accessible to all iPhone users with just a few taps.
Related: How to Screen Record on iPhone in 2023 – A Comprehensive Guide
Step by Step Tutorial: Enabling Picture in Picture on iOS 17
The following steps will guide you through the process of enabling PiP on your iPhone.
Step 1: Open Settings
Navigate to the settings app on your iPhone.
Opening the Settings app is your gateway to customizing your iPhone experience. It’s where all the magic happens!
Step 2: Tap on General
Scroll a bit until you see the option for General and tap on it.
The General settings are like the control center for your iPhone. Here you can adjust a wide array of your device’s functions.
Step 3: Select Picture in Picture
Find the Picture in Picture option in the list and select it.
This is where you’ll find the switch to turn on the PiP feature.
Step 4: Switch on Picture in Picture
Flip the toggle to enable the feature.
Once you switch it on, you’re ready to use PiP on your supported apps!
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Multitasking | PiP allows you to watch a video while using other apps, which can increase productivity or just make your user experience more enjoyable. |
| Convenience | With PiP, there’s no need to pause your video to perform another task; it all happens seamlessly. |
| User-Friendly | It’s simple to enable and use, with intuitive controls that make resizing and moving the PiP window a breeze. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Limited App Support | Not all apps support PiP, which means your favorite video content might not be available for this feature. |
| Potential Distraction | Having a video playing in the corner can be distracting if you’re trying to focus on another task. |
| Screen Real Estate | On smaller iPhone models, PiP might take up too much screen space, making it less useful. |
Video About Picture in Picture
Additional Information
For those wondering, picture-in-picture is not a new concept. It has been around on various devices and platforms, but iOS 17 has made some significant improvements to its functionality on the iPhone. Now, the feature is more smooth and stable than ever. But remember, not all apps will be compatible with PiP right away. Developers need to enable this feature within their apps. So, if you’re a YouTube fanatic, keep in mind that you’ll need a premium account to enjoy PiP. And for all you Netflix bingers out there, rejoice! Netflix fully supports PiP, allowing you to watch your favorite series while you work, shop, or chat.
Another tip to keep in mind is that video content isn’t the only thing you can view with PiP. Some video call apps also support PiP, meaning you can have a face-to-face conversation while still using your phone for other tasks. iOS 17’s versatility in PiP functionality truly brings multitasking to the next level.
Summary
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap on General.
- Select Picture in Picture.
- Switch on the feature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will PiP work with all video apps on my iPhone?
Not necessarily. App developers must enable support for PiP in their apps, so it may not work with every video app.
Can I use PiP while on a video call?
Yes, some video call apps like FaceTime support PiP, allowing you to continue your call while using other apps.
Is PiP available on all iPhone models running iOS 17?
PiP is available on iPhone models that support iOS 17, but it may be more useful on larger screens for better visibility.
Can I disable PiP if I find it distracting?
Absolutely! You can turn off PiP through the same settings where you enabled it.
Are there any special requirements for using PiP on YouTube?
Yes, you need a YouTube Premium subscription to use PiP on the YouTube app.
Conclusion
Picture-in-picture on iOS 17 is not just a feature; it’s a game-changer. It’s an evolution in how we interact with our devices, giving us the power to consume content and perform tasks simultaneously. Whether you’re a multitasking maven or just someone who likes to keep a video playing while you text, enabling PiP on your iPhone will undoubtedly enhance your user experience.
Just remember, with great power comes great responsibility. Use PiP wisely, and don’t let it turn into a distraction. Now, go on and enjoy your newfound multitasking abilities on your iPhone with iOS 17!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.