YouTube Rolls Out Picture-in-Picture for All Users Globally
The feature, previously reserved for Premium subscribers, is now available to everyone for longform, non-music content on Android and iOS.
YouTube has announced the global rollout of picture-in-picture (PiP) mode for longform, non-music content on its Android and iOS applications. The feature is being extended to all users, including those without a YouTube Premium subscription. The rollout will occur gradually over the coming months.
Key Details of the Rollout
- Availability: The feature is now being made available to all users worldwide for "longform, non-music content" on both Android and iOS devices.
- Functionality: PiP allows a video to shrink into a small, movable, and resizable player window. This window remains visible while users operate other applications or when the device screen is off.
- Activation: Users can activate PiP by starting a video and then swiping up or pressing the home button to exit the YouTube app. The video will continue playing in a small window with play/pause controls and an option to return to the full app.
- Timeline: The rollout begins immediately and will reach all eligible users globally in the coming months.
Changes for Different User Groups
- Non-Premium Users: Can now use PiP for longform, non-music content. This feature was previously restricted to Premium subscribers in the United States and to Premium subscribers globally.
- Premium Lite Subscribers: Continue to have access to PiP for longform, non-music content on Android and iOS.
- Premium Subscribers: Retain exclusive access to PiP for music content, in addition to non-music content. There are no changes to the existing benefits for Premium subscribers in the United States.
Background
Picture-in-picture mode was initially introduced for YouTube Premium subscribers in the United States in 2018 on Android and in 2021 on iOS. It was later made available to all U.S. users. This expansion extends the feature globally to all users for non-music content. YouTube has stated that the rollout for non-Premium users outside the United States will be gradual.